PESHAWAR: The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government will assign revenue officers (tehsildars) the task of helping Peshawar Electric Supply Company (Pesco) in its upcoming dues recovery campaign.

This decision was made during a meeting between chief secretary Nadeem Aslam Chaudhry and Pesco board of directors chairman Himayatullah, according to a statement issued here on Friday.

Pesco chief executive officer Akhtar Hamid Khan was also present.

The meeting centered on strategies, challenges and collaborative efforts to enhance the recovery process for outstanding electricity dues.

CS promises enhanced security for power company’s grid stations

Mr Himayatullah provided an in-depth overview of Pesco’s planned strategies for the success of the recovery campaign.

He emphasised the need for a comprehensive, multifaceted approach to tackle the issue of outstanding electricity bills, while ensuring the continuation of services to legitimate consumers.

He also highlighted the challenges currently faced by the power utility in implementing the recovery measures.

On the occasion, chief secretary Aslam Chaudhry proposed the formation of a high-level committee composed of senior government officials to oversee the implementation of the recovery campaign.

He said the committee would monitor recovery progress on a daily basis to ensure timely and effective action.

He said that nine tehsildars would assist Pesco teams in the field, carrying out necessary actions in accordance with the Land Revenue Act. “This collaboration will enhance Pesco’s ability to recover outstanding dues in a legally sound manner.”

Pesco CEO Akhtar Hamid raised concerns about the challenge to secure its grid stations from mobs, especially in certain high-risk areas.

The chief secretary acknowledged the security concerns and assured Pesco of the provincial government’s commitment to providing necessary security.

He directed that a formal demand that how much security was needed by Pesco should be submitted. He said that police officers would be provided on deputation that would make sure the security of recovery campaign and grid stations.

Mr Himayatullah expressed his gratitude to the chief secretary for his unwavering support and collaboration.

He assured that Pesco, with the assistance of the provincial government, would launch a comprehensive and effective recovery campaign to address the issue of outstanding electricity dues.

Separately, Tariq Mahmood Sadozai, adviser to the chief minister for energy and power has said the implementation of the agreements between Pesco and Pakhtunkhwa Energy Development Organisation on various energy projects, including Shishi, Karora and Koto, would lead to affordable electricity prices for power consumers.

He stated this during a visit to the Pesco headquarters where he met with Mr Himayatullah and senior management on Friday.

Pedo senior officials were also present.

“These projects, which are designed to enhance KP’s energy infrastructure, will help ensure a more reliable and cost-effective supply of electricity to the region,” he said.

The meeting held to discuss the ongoing collaboration between Pedo and Pesco focused on the signing of agreements for various energy projects.

Both sides explored potential solutions to improve power transmission network across the province.

Pesco CEO Akhtar Hamid raised the issue of outstanding arrears to be paid by Pedo. The Pedo management promised clearing the arrears within a specified timeline.

Published in Dawn, December 21st, 2024