The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has summoned officials from the Lahore Electric Supply Company (LESCO) to investigate allegations of overbilling.
LESCO Chief Shahid Haider, along with the director of customer services, the director of IT, and officials from the energy ministry, have been called in for questioning today. The FIA is required to submit a report on their findings to the Prime Minister within 24 hours.
This investigation follows directives from Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, who on July 6th ordered the FIA to look into the activities of power distribution company officials accused of inflating electricity bills by charging consumers for excess units. During a meeting focused on Power Sector reforms and solarisation, PM Shehbaz Sharif emphasized the need for immediate action against such practices.
PM Sharif instructed the concerned departments to suspend the officials involved in overbilling. He described these actions as “anti-public” and stressed that those responsible for adding extra units to the electricity bills should face punishment. The Prime Minister specifically highlighted the plight of protected consumers, who use less than 200 units per month, stating that any attempts to overcharge them must be exposed to the public.
The Prime Minister’s orders aim to ensure transparency and accountability within the power sector, particularly protecting low-income consumers from unfair billing practices. This swift response underscores the government’s commitment to addressing public grievances and maintaining fairness in utility billing. The outcome of the FIA’s investigation will be crucial in determining the extent of the issue and ensuring that corrective measures are implemented promptly.
