Audit Reveals Rs244 Billion Electricity Overbilling Fraud by Eight Discos

Download IPFS

An audit by the Auditor General of Pakistan (AGP) has uncovered widespread billing irregularities and financial discrepancies across multiple electricity Distribution Companies (Discos) in Pakistan, highlighting systemic issues that have impacted consumers nationwide.

The audit report, released in late 2024 and early 2025, identified irregularities totaling over Rs9 trillion across eight major Discos, including Quetta Electric Supply Company (QESCO), Sukkur Electric Power Company (SEPCO), Lahore Electric Supply Company (LESCO), Peshawar Electric Supply Company (PESCO), and others. QESCO alone reported discrepancies exceeding Rs1.1 trillion.

The Public Accounts Committee has raised concerns about governance and oversight, urging stricter action to hold responsible officials accountable and improve transparency in billing and collection processes.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed the accelerated rollout of smart meters across the country to enhance billing accuracy and transparency. He emphasized that overbilling and financial irregularities are unacceptable and called for reforms to restore public trust in the energy sector.

The AGP audit underscores the urgent need for structural reforms within Pakistan’s electricity distribution framework to address inefficiencies, prevent financial losses, and protect consumer interests.