NEPRA not happy with DISCOS’ performance

ISLAMABAD: The National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) has voiced its concerns over the performance of power distribution companies (DISCOs) regarding the earthing and grounding of poles and structures nationwide.

In response to a query posed by Senator Mushtaq Ahmed, the Ministry of Power revealed that DISCOs had failed to address the earthing issues of a staggering 2,915,068 poles across Pakistan.

The Minister for Energy Power Division was pressed for answers regarding NEPRA’s directives to DISCOs to address earthing concerns on both high and low transmission lines, and the subsequent lack of action.

Interim Minister of Power, Muhammad Ali, confirmed NEPRA’s directive issued on October 28, 2022, requiring DISCOs to submit comprehensive plans for earthing and grounding operations within stipulated timelines.

However, Mr. Ali lamented that DISCOs had only managed to earth 2,307,226 out of a total of 5,222,294 structures and poles, as per NEPRA’s assessment.

NEPRA’s dissatisfaction with DISCOs’ progress has prompted the initiation of legal proceedings.

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Explanations were sought from DISCOs on April 27, 2023, and subsequent hearings were conducted in July and August 2023. Despite DISCOs revising their plans in light of NEPRA’s observations, the outcome of the ongoing proceedings remains uncertain.

In response to NEPRA’s directives, DISCOs have committed to completing the remaining earthing tasks by December 2024.

NEPRA emphasizes the critical importance of earthing in preventing fatalities during electrical mishaps, especially during inclement weather conditions.

As NEPRA continues to advocate for enhanced safety measures in the power sector, the outcome of the legal proceedings against DISCOs remains pivotal in ensuring the integrity and reliability of Pakistan’s electricity distribution network.