Power Theft
LAHORE: The secretary of the Power division disclosed that power theft in Punjab had caused more than Rs 100 billion in one year. The power division secretary explained that 113 grid stations had borne the burden of this Rs 100 billion annual loss.
Furthermore, the power division announced that 537 grid stations were free from theft, but electricity theft at 27 grid stations in Punjab had resulted in a Rs 42 billion annual loss.
The government had previously decided to suspend electricity in areas of Lahore affected by electricity theft. According to sources, feeders with a 30 percent line loss would experience 12 hours of electricity suspension from 6 pm to 6 am.
The Power Ministry instructed LESCO authorities to implement the decision regarding the 97 feeders with over 30 percent line losses without any pressure.
It’s worth noting that the Power Division achieved a recovery of over Rs6 billion during a nationwide crackdown.
According to details provided by the Power Division, Lahore Electric Supply Company (LESCO) reclaimed Rs1.45 billion during the crackdown and apprehended 406 electricity thieves, resulting in the registration of 4,928 FIRs against individuals involved in electricity theft.
Similarly, Hyderabad Electric Supply Company (HESCO) successfully recovered Rs1.21 billion and apprehended 31 individuals on electricity theft charges, with 310 FIRs registered. Multan Electric Supply Company also managed to recover Rs800.5 million from defaulters, leading to the arrest of 249 people and the registration of 497 FIRs.
In conclusion, the Power Division’s nationwide crackdown on electricity theft has led to substantial recoveries and legal actions across various electric supply companies.
