Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has approved the phasing out of meter readers in power Distribution Companies (Discos) across the country, excluding Karachi Electric (KE).Â
According to a news report, this change is part of a new initiative involving the “Apna Meter Apni Reading” mobile app, which aims to automate the electricity meter reading process.
In a recent meeting, the Prime Minister discussed the new system, focusing on resolving the widespread issue of overbilling. The move comes in response to numerous complaints about inflated bills, often caused by inaccurate readings taken by manual meter readers.
Under the new plan, consumers will be able to take and submit meter readings using the app. The Power Division is tasked with developing the app, which will be available in five languages, including English and four regional languages: Punjabi, Sindhi, Pashtu, and Balochi.
The Prime Minister has given the Power Division one month to prepare a detailed plan for the full implementation of this new system. Additionally, a comprehensive media campaign will be launched to educate consumers about the benefits of self-reading. The government has allocated Rs. 316 million for the campaign.
The initiative is also expected to reduce administrative costs associated with meter reading, and the savings will be passed on to consumers. The app, along with the accompanying media campaign, aims to improve transparency, eliminate malpractices, and build consumer trust in the electricity billing process.
