ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s Power Minister Sardar Awais Khan Leghari stated on Friday that the current government is actively pursuing the privatization of profitable power distribution companies (Discos), aiming to alleviate circular debt and curtail recurring losses to the national exchequer.
In an interview with a private news channel, he highlighted that Pakistan’s power sector confronts significant challenges resulting from inadequate policies of previous administrations.
Leghari assured that electricity tariffs for all consumers would decrease starting in January.
The Federal Minister emphasized that management of Power Distribution Companies (Discos) would maintain meticulous financial records and compile comprehensive data on company assets.
Addressing concerns about financial losses in the power sector, he remarked that Pakistan cannot afford losses amounting to 500 to 600 billion rupees, underscoring the need to enhance the performance of power distribution entities.
Leghari reaffirmed the government’s commitment to a zero-tolerance policy against electricity theft, stressing its dedication to ensuring a fair and transparent power distribution system.
He urged collective responsibility, regardless of political affiliations, to combat power theft, noting the cooperation of provincial governments in these efforts.
The minister acknowledged the hardships faced by the lower-middle class due to power theft and emphasized the necessity for long-term reforms to address existing shortcomings in the power sector.
