ISLAMABAD: In a bid to combat electricity theft, the federal government has announced plans to establish dedicated police stations and courts across the country, a move that might increase financial burdens on the public amidst recent hikes in electricity bills.
A total of 8,769 specialized police stations and 497 courts will be created, staffed by 634 personnel. The initial rollout will occur in Lahore, DG Khan, Hyderabad, Larkana Division, Bannu, Peshawar, Mardan, and Quetta.
The expansion will continue in a second phase to 29 additional divisions. The annual operating cost for this new system is projected at 10.7 billion rupees. This expense will be passed onto consumers by distribution companies, even as the federal government allocates more than 10 billion rupees for the initial establishment of these facilities. Additionally, the costs associated with apprehending and prosecuting offenders will be charged to the public.
While this initiative is designed to curb the rampant issue of electricity theft, it has sparked concerns about the potential financial impact on consumers, who are already facing increased electricity rates.
