ISLAMABAD: As part of major power sector reforms, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has formally launched the ‘Apna Meter, Apni Reading’ app, empowering consumers to record their electricity meter readings. This initiative aims to gradually reduce dependence on meter readers from power distribution companies (Discos) and directly address widespread complaints about inaccurate billing.
At the launch ceremony, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif described the “Apna Meter, Apni Reading” app as a “revolutionary technology” that prioritizes consumers by ensuring fair and transparent billing.
He emphasized, “We have carried out substantial reforms over the past year, but a long journey still lies ahead,” highlighting the merit-based appointments to Disco boards and the government’s tough crackdowns on entrenched corruption.
Shehbaz Sharif highlighted that rigorous negotiations with independent power producers (IPPs) enabled the government to reduce electricity prices by Rs7.5 per unit.
“We resolved circular debt through bank negotiations and capitalized on falling global oil prices to cut rates even further,” he added.
Despite facing hurdles, the government decided to rebase tariffs without passing the burden onto consumers.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also announced the removal of the Rs35 monthly Pakistan Television (PTV) fee from electricity bills, providing immediate relief to the public.
Shehbaz Sharif emphasized that power theft remains Pakistan’s biggest energy challenge, causing annual losses of Rs500 billion. He affirmed that the government is actively implementing comprehensive measures to combat the issue. He also highlighted Pakistan’s rapid growth in solar energy, called it the country’s most affordable power source, and pledged continued government support to expand its use.
PM Shehbaz highlighted that the “Apna Meter, Apni Reading” app aims to directly benefit ordinary consumers. Now available in five languages, the app allows millions to track their own electricity usage and ensure accurate billing. He urged the power division to actively promote the app so households nationwide can fully benefit from this new technology.
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