ISLAMABAD: The National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) has taken a decisive step by issuing a show cause notice to Faisalabad Electric Supply Company (FESCO) due to its reported negligence in the installation of mandatory safety tools, resulting in a concerning number of electrocution cases.
NEPRA’s order underscores FESCO’s lapse in ensuring the proper earthing of high-tension (HT) and low-tension (LT) poles, which has, unfortunately, led to several fatal incidents. The regulatory body is now considering the imposition of stringent measures against the distribution company in Faisalabad.
Despite FESCO’s prior assurances to adhere to industry standards, prevent power leakage, and adopt robust safety practices, NEPRA’s scrutiny revealed a significant disparity between the company’s commitments and the actual conditions on the ground. The regulatory authority expressed dissatisfaction, stating that FESCO’s responses were “far away from ground realities.”
NEPRA’s investigation unveiled contradictions in FESCO’s clarifications, particularly regarding the deterioration and change in moisture content at the sites, rendering the steel structures for grounding electricity poles ineffective over time.
It is crucial to highlight that FESCO’s negligence has had severe consequences, with five electrocution incidents reported in 2020-21, six in 2021-22, and an additional four in 2023.
These alarming statistics underscore the urgency of addressing safety lapses and ensuring that corrective measures are promptly implemented to prevent further harm to the public. NEPRA’s show cause notice signals a pivotal moment for accountability and the enforcement of safety standards in the electric power sector.
