Key Points:
- The federal government is considering revoking free electricity for government officials, including judges, bureaucrats, and lawmakers.
- The move is part of an emergency plan to alleviate the financial burden on the power sector.
- The proposal also suggests phasing out free petrol benefits and reviewing the performance of Nepra and Ogra.
- Essential facilities for industry and business will continue to receive electricity, with potential reductions in MDI charges for factories being explored.
- The IMF has expressed concerns over high power theft and distribution losses in Pakistan, which contribute to the accumulation of debt.
Background:
Pakistan is facing severe financial strain and external debt.
The government has been implementing tough measures to fulfill IMF demands, including raising power tariffs.
Poor and middle-class households have been disproportionately affected by these measures.
Additional Details:
In December 2023, the government discontinued free electricity for officers in Grade 17 and above in the power sector.
However, these officers received a pay increase in compensation.
