ISLAMABAD: Taking serious notice of widespread irregularities, the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (Nepra) has ordered all the distribution companies (Discos) to streamline their affairs and ensure immediate replacement of faulty transformers without any cost to consumers.

In a statement, the regulator said it had come to its notice that Discos had been repeatedly failing to repair or replace damaged distribution transformers on timely basis due to which their consumers had been suffering, particularly during summer months.

Secondly, it was also brought to its notice that officers/officials of Discos had been demanding payments from affected consumers for replacement of concerned distribution equipment. “This constitutes violation of the provisions of Consumer Service Manual and Nepra Licencing (Distribution) Rules 1999,” the statement said.

Accordingly, Nepra has directed Discos to take necessary measures to ensure timely repair or replacement of damaged distribution equipment and transformers as the case may be.

The Discos have also been directed to take necessary action under applicable law against distribution company officers and officials who have taken money from consumers other than as provided under law.

The regulator also asked the companies to take necessary measures to ensure that their officers and officials refrain from demanding payments from consumers for replacement of concerned distribution equipment other than as provided under law.

Published in Dawn, July 31st, 2019