LESCO Cracks Down on Power Theft: Over 100 Employees Sacked
The Lahore Electric Supply Company (LESCO) has taken strong action against employees involved in power theft, resulting in the termination of 101 employees within the last six months. Some employees have also been arrested or forced into retirement due to serious charges against them. Others have faced demotions and had their increments withheld.
Moreover, the Punjab Energy Department has accused power distribution companies of overcharging government institutions, causing a burden on the provincial exchequer. LESCO, FESCO, MEPCO, GEPCO, and IESCO are among the companies allegedly overcharging government departments.
To combat power theft, the federal government has approved the deputation of Federal Investigation Officers (FIA) to electricity distribution companies (DISCOs). This move aims to enhance recoveries and address the issue of power theft, as demanded by the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
Overall, the crackdown on power theft and overcharging signifies a step towards ensuring transparent and fair electricity distribution practices in Pakistan.