The Federal Investigation Authority (FIA) and other relevant authorities have concluded their investigation into the electricity overbilling issue, holding officials from the power ministry accountable, as reported by ARY News.
Sources indicate that a detailed report on the overbilling has been submitted to the Prime Minister’s office. The report calls for strict action against the responsible officials, and the Prime Minister’s Office is expected to review the findings and take necessary measures this week.
In June, more than 0.3 million power consumers were moved out of the protected category, resulting in inflated bills due to a new billing system introduced by DISCOs under the Ministry of Energy’s directives. Protected consumers usually benefit from subsidized rates or exemptions from price hikes.
On July 6, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif instructed the FIA to investigate the officials of power distribution companies involved in overbilling. He stressed that those responsible for inflating electricity bills by adding extra units should face consequences, especially those affecting consumers using less than 200 units per month.
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi directed the FIA to gather data from all distribution companies that provide relief to protected consumers. He expressed concern over the inclusion of protected users in the non-protected category and tasked FIA directors with collecting and reporting data within three days.
The FIA has summoned officials from the Lahore Electric Supply Company (LESCO) and the Ministry of Energy, including LESCO Chief Shahid Haider, for a probe into the overbilling. The FIA must submit its final report to the Prime Minister within 24 hours.
