The Public Accounts Committee (PAC), chaired by Shahida Akhtar Ali, reviewed audit objections related to the Power Division for the fiscal year 2022-23. Audit officials revealed that power companies collected over Rs. 8 billion in excess revenue through overbilling, charging consumers for more units than they actually used. The audit found more than 1,000 feeders were involved in this irregular practice.
During the meeting, it was agreed that until PAC Chairman Junaid Akbar returns, the committee’s leadership will rotate among all parties, with a new chairperson presiding over each session. This proposal was put forward by MQM’s Aminul Haque.
While examining the Power Division’s 2023-24 audit report, officials noted total financial irregularities of Rs. 8.727 billion. Recoveries exceeding Rs. 9.34 billion had already been made. The audit also revealed that four power companies issued unauthorized refunds totaling Rs. 9.14 billion. Between 2018 and 2023, 293,572 consumers received tariff relief meant only for disconnected users.
The Power Division Secretary admitted that much of the required documentation was missing during the audit. He assured that all power companies have now been instructed to submit records promptly. PAC member Syed Hussain Tariq questioned what actions were taken against officers responsible for overbilling and how much had been recovered. The CEO of LESCO said an internal audit report had been submitted on the matter.
The Auditor General highlighted that meter readers often did not visit consumers for readings, and relief was given to active users. To improve transparency, meter readings are now printed on all bills, and consumers can upload their own readings via a mobile app.
PESCO officials reported a shortage of meter readers, with readings in remote areas sometimes delayed by months. Recruitment is underway, and some companies have started outsourcing meter reading tasks.
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The PAC has referred the overbilling issue to a subcommittee for further review and instructed the Power Division Secretary to complete record verification promptly.
