The Ministry of Energy has taken a decisive step in addressing the issue of an over-billing scam affecting consumers of electricity distribution companies. A four-member committee, led by former Secretary of Power Division, Irfan Ali, has been constituted to conduct a thorough investigation. According to Power Division on Thursday, the committee, established by the Power Division, will delve into the Nepra report concerning the over-billing practices of electricity distribution companies. The Terms of Reference (TORs) outline a comprehensive review of NEPRA's investigation, analyzing data from DISCOS and PITC, and scrutinizing the sampling procedure. The notification emphasizes that, in addition to reviewing the NEPRA report, the committee will interrogate officials of electricity companies and Nepra's investigation team members regarding the billing discrepancies observed over the past month.

The Power Division expects the committee to compile and submit its recommendations within 15 days. Furthermore, the committee has been entrusted with the responsibility of identifying the individuals responsible for the over-billing and proposing appropriate actions against them. The committee comprises distinguished members, including MD Nespak Zargam Ishaq Khan, Consultant USAID Abid Lodhi, and former MDNTDC Dr. Fayyaz Chaudhary. Their collective expertise is expected to contribute to a comprehensive and impartial investigation into the over-billing scam, ensuring accountability and transparency in the electricity distribution sector.

 
Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)