DISCOs Ownership Transfer to Provinces
In a historic development, the federal government has given its nod to transfer ownership of electricity distribution companies (DISCOs) to provincial authorities. This decision marks a significant departure from the existing centralized system of electricity sales, distribution, and tariff regulation.
The move, driven by the caretaker federal cabinet, is aimed at enhancing decentralization, accountability, and efficiency in the power sector at the regional level.
Decentralization and Management
This progressive step seeks to usher in a new era of better electricity management by allowing individual provinces to take charge of their respective electricity rates, subsidies, and overall distribution systems.
The transfer of ownership aims to empower provinces with the autonomy to tailor their electricity strategies according to local needs, ensuring more efficient and demand-responsive services.
Detailed DISCOs Ownership Transfers
The table outlines the transfer of DISCO ownership to respective provinces: Sindh, Balochistan, Punjab, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. This transition empowers regions to independently manage electricity systems and tailor services to local needs.
| Electricity Supply Companies (DISCOs) | Province |
| Hyderabad Electric Supply Company | Sindh |
| Sukkur Electric Supply Company | Sindh |
| Quetta Electric Supply Company | Balochistan |
| Lahore Electric Supply Company | Punjab |
| Gujranwala Electric Supply Company | Punjab |
| Faisalabad Electric Supply Company | Punjab |
| Multan Electric Supply Company | Punjab |
| Islamabad Electric Supply Company | Punjab and Federal |
| Peshawar Electric Supply Company | Khyber Pakhtunkhwa |
| Tribal Areas Electric Supply Company | Khyber Pakhtunkhwa |
Rationale and Challenges Addressed
The decision to transfer DISCO ownership to provinces is a strategic response to persistent challenges, notably electricity theft and the accumulation of unpaid dues. These issues have substantially strained the national treasury.
By decentralizing ownership and management, the government aims to alleviate the financial burden and enhance revenue recovery.
Promising Future
The approval of the DISCO ownership transfer to provinces marks a pivotal juncture in Pakistan’s electricity landscape. With localized management, empowered decision-making, and enhanced accountability, this shift is poised to elevate the efficiency and sustainability of the power distribution network nationwide.
Previously Mentioned by HumNews