Rs152B Recovered in Power Theft Crackdown Since Sept 2023

Islamabad – April 15, 2025:
The government’s ongoing anti-electricity theft campaign has achieved a major milestone, recovering Rs152 billion in dues and losses since its launch in September 2023, according to official figures shared by the Ministry of Energy.

The nationwide drive was launched to curb power theft and improve recoveries across distribution companies (DISCOs), which have long suffered from financial hemorrhaging due to widespread electricity pilferage and unpaid bills. The campaign has been spearheaded with the support of federal and provincial authorities, along with law enforcement agencies.

According to the ministry, the recovery includes penalties from detected theft, dues from defaulters, and improved billing mechanisms. Thousands of illegal connections have been disconnected, and hundreds of FIRs have been registered against individuals and entities involved in electricity theft.

Energy Minister Muhammad Ali praised the effort, calling it “a critical step toward fixing Pakistan’s power sector and reducing the circular debt.” He stated that a zero-tolerance policy will continue against power theft, and that surveillance technologies are being expanded to detect and prevent future violations.

The campaign has also led to improved energy efficiency in high-loss feeders and prompted stricter accountability within the power distribution system. Authorities are hopeful the momentum will continue through 2025, aiming to reduce system losses and enhance consumer trust.