LESCO Consumers Reportedly Get Shockingly High Bills

The Lahore Electric Supply Company (LESCO) is facing an unprecedented crisis as a massive number of faulty electricity meters has led to thousands of consumers receiving heavy estimated bills.

The National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) has taken notice of the issue and demanded an explanation from LESCO Chief Muhammad Ramzan Butt.

According to official data, LESCO has reported 102,000 defective or burnt single-phase meters and 2,400 faulty three-phase meters. The shortage has persisted for six months, leaving consumers without replacements and forcing them to pay inflated average bills issued under defective meter codes.

NEPRA stated in its notice that LESCO has failed to maintain the mandatory stock of meters required for new connections and meter replacement, a direct violation of regulatory rules. The authority reminded the company that timely meter replacement is a legal obligation.

Consumers have continued to protest, saying the shortage has created severe financial hardship. Many claim they have faced undue pressure from officials after their meters malfunctioned, and several reported that false electricity theft cases were registered against them.

Sources said thousands of people deposited millions of rupees in demand notices over the past six months, yet their meters have not been installed. The delay has forced residents to repeatedly visit LESCO offices, causing frequent disputes between customers and staff.

LESCO operations officers, while criticizing the new management, claim the crisis stems from delays in finalizing meter procurement tenders. Despite multiple attempts, LESCO officials were not available for comment.

Via: Express Tribune