Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif inaugurated the ‘Apna Meter, Apna Reading’ mobile application on Sunday, a major step toward eliminating billing discrepancies in Pakistan’s power sector. The app allows consumers to submit their own electricity meter readings, reducing reliance on manual processes and preventing unfair tariff hikes caused by the pro rata system. This initiative is part of broader reforms aimed at improving transparency and consumer trust in power distribution companies (Discos).
Speaking at the launch ceremony, PM Shehbaz emphasized the government’s efforts in restructuring the power sector, including merit-based appointments in Discos and strict actions against corruption. He revealed that tough negotiations with independent power producers (IPPs) led to a Rs. 7.5 per unit reduction in electricity prices, providing relief to consumers. Additionally, the government settled circular debt with banks and passed on the benefits of falling global oil prices instead of burdening consumers.
The Prime Minister also announced the removal of the Rs. 35 monthly PTV fee from electricity bills, addressing a long-standing public grievance. However, he acknowledged that power theft, costing the national exchequer Rs. 500 billion annually, remains a major challenge. Despite this, the government remains committed to promoting solar energy, recognizing it as the cheapest and most sustainable power source for Pakistan.
The ‘Apna Meter, Apna Reading’ app, available in five languages, is expected to empower millions of consumers by giving them direct control over their billing process. PM Shehbaz urged the Power Division to run awareness campaigns to ensure maximum adoption of the app, calling it a “revolutionary technology” that will benefit every household in the country. The initiative marks a significant milestone in Pakistan’s ongoing power sector reforms.