Over Rs75 billion recovered in crackdown against electricity theft

WEB DESK: In a significant stride towards curbing electricity theft, Pakistan has recovered over Rs75 billion during an ongoing nationwide crackdown.

The initiative, spearheaded by the power division, aims to mitigate losses in the power sector caused by rampant electricity pilferage.

According to details disclosed by the power division, a staggering Rs75.166 billion has been reclaimed from power thieves from September 1 to the current date.

This robust effort is part of a broader strategy to address the challenges posed by electricity theft across the country.

The authorities have taken decisive action against 44,730 individuals involved in power pilferage, signalling a resolute stance against those compromising the integrity of the national power grid.

In a recent operation from February 11 to 18, Rs2.096 billion was recovered, and 106 individuals were apprehended.

The breakdown of the recovered funds reveals that Rs1.211 billion was reclaimed from power thieves in major cities, including Islamabad, Lahore, Faisalabad, and Multan. During this period, 57 individuals involved in electricity theft were arrested.

Furthermore, Rs0.301 billion was successfully retrieved from power thieves in Peshawar, leading to the apprehension of 26 individuals. In tribal districts merged with Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Rs0.022 billion was recovered, along with Rs0.485 billion from Hyderabad and Sukkur and Rs0.077 billion from Quetta.

This concerted effort gains significance in the backdrop of the caretaker government’s commitment to tackling power theft nationwide, thereby reducing losses in the power sector and alleviating circular debt.

The International Monetary Fund has also urged Pakistan to address the circular debt issue, emphasising the importance of financial stability in the power sector.

The ongoing crackdown is not only a testament to the government’s dedication to financial reforms but also a crucial step towards ensuring a reliable and sustainable energy infrastructure for the nation.

As Pakistan continues to make strides in this direction, the results of the anti-electricity theft campaign highlight a positive trajectory for the country’s energy sector.

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