The Multan Electric Power Company (MEPCO) is continuing its operation against electricity thieves and defaulters in South Punjab. This ongoing effort aims to reduce electricity theft and recover dues from defaulters. In a single day, 117 individuals were caught stealing electricity, and fresh cases have been filed against 89 of them. MEPCO also imposed fines amounting to Rs. 7.52 million, with Rs. 1.7 million being recovered on the spot.
| Feature | Details |
| Number of Culprits | 117 electricity thieves |
| Total Fines Imposed | Rs. 7.52 million |
| Amount Recovered | Rs. 1.7 million |
| Operations Conducted | Across various regions in South Punjab |
Contents
Crackdown in Different Circles
The crackdown has been widespread, affecting various circles in the region. On September 12, 2024, several areas were targeted for electricity theft and defaulters. In the Multan Circle alone, 16 people were fined Rs. 1.26 million, with cases filed against all of them. In the Dera Ghazi Khan Circle, fines of Rs. 220,000 were imposed on four consumers, and four cases were registered. Similar steps were taken in other areas, including Vehari, Bahawalpur, Sahiwal, Rahim Yar Khan, Muzaffargarh, Bahawalnagar, and Khanewal.
Breakdown of Fines and Cases
Different regions witnessed various amounts of fines and registered cases. In Vehari, 13 individuals were fined Rs. 450,000, while in Bahawalpur, fines of Rs. 590,000 were imposed on nine people. The Sahiwal Circle imposed the highest fines, amounting to Rs. 2.84 million, on 27 electricity thieves. In Rahim Yar Khan, 13 people were fined Rs. 440,000, and similar fines and FIRs were issued in other areas like Muzaffargarh, Bahawalnagar, and Khanewal.
- Multan Circle: Fines of Rs. 1.26 million on 16 individuals
- Sahiwal Circle: Rs. 2.84 million fines on 27 culprits
- Bahawalpur Circle: Rs. 590,000 fines on nine people
- Khanewal Circle: Rs. 1.02 million fines on 13 individuals
Action Against Defaulters
In addition to the crackdown on electricity theft, MEPCO also recovered Rs. 42 million from both running and dead defaulters. This recovery included action against defaulters using agricultural tube wells in Multan and Bahawalpur. In this operation, connections for 10 defaulters were disconnected due to non-payment of Rs. 2.38 million in outstanding dues. This highlights MEPCO’s continued efforts to ensure that defaulters pay their dues and do not misuse the electricity supply.
Focus on Recovery and Accountability
MEPCO’s primary goal with this operation is to reduce electricity theft and recover overdue amounts from defaulters. By targeting those involved in illegal electricity use and those failing to pay their bills, MEPCO is aiming to improve the financial health of the power company. Electricity theft is a significant issue in many areas, and this operation is seen as a way to deter future thefts and ensure proper payment of bills.
Also Read: MEPCO and Other DISCOs Struggle as Government Debt Reaches Rs2.56 Trillion
Importance of MEPCO’s Operation
This crackdown by MEPCO is crucial for maintaining a sustainable electricity supply in South Punjab. By catching electricity thieves and recovering money from defaulters, the power company is protecting its resources and ensuring that paying consumers receive uninterrupted service. The fines and legal action are meant to serve as a deterrent, discouraging others from engaging in illegal electricity activities.
Conclusion
MEPCO’s ongoing crackdown on electricity thieves and defaulters is a positive step towards improving the electricity distribution system in South Punjab. With large amounts of fines imposed and money recovered from defaulters, the company is working hard to address the issue of electricity theft and non-payment. This operation is expected to bring long-term benefits by promoting responsible electricity usage and reducing financial losses for the power company.