ISLAMABAD: In a significant move to curb overbilling and enhance transparency, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has approved the phased removal of meter readers from power distribution companies (Discos) across Pakistan, excluding KE’s service area.
Currently, meter readers photograph consumers’ electricity meters, with data sent to the Power Information Technology Company (PITC) for billing. However, this process has faced widespread complaints of inflated bills and malpractice.
To address these issues, the Prime Minister presided over a key meeting on June 17, 2025, where the new digital scheme and its potential to eliminate overbilling were discussed.
Under the new mechanism, consumers will be able to self-report their meter readings via the Power Smart Mobile App, which will be introduced in both national and regional languages—including Punjabi, Sindhi, Pashtu, and Balochi—for ease of use.
The Power Division has been instructed to conduct a soft launch of the app immediately to iron out any technical issues before the nationwide rollout.
The Prime Minister has given the Power Division one month to develop a comprehensive plan for phasing out meter readers. The government also aims to pass on savings from reduced administrative costs to consumers, with a total media campaign budget of Rs. 316 million allocated to promote the initiative.
A detailed media strategy, prepared in coordination with the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, will clearly communicate the objectives and benefits of the scheme.
Discos are also urged to actively participate by providing promotional materials and exploring opportunities for free airtime on electronic media to raise awareness.
Discos and PITC are working together to ensure thorough testing of the new applications, including the Power Smart App, Apna Meter Apni Reading, CCMS+, and the Lineman Mobile Solution, to provide a seamless and trustworthy user experience. Transparency and technical reliability are prioritized to build consumer confidence and ensure the success of this digital transformation.
This initiative will be supported by the upcoming launch of the innovative “Apna Meter Apni Reading” mobile application.
