AS the saying goes, justice should not only be done; it should be seen to be done. It was heartening to know that the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (Nepra) has imposed a fine of Rs200 million on the Islamabad Electric Supply Company (Iesco) for gross negligence which caused a non-fatal injury to a young girl in Hasan Abdal. Nepra deserves appreciation for such an action.

The complainant, father of the victim girl, had filed an application to the effect that despite repeated requests to the area sub-divisional officer (SDO) to have the overhead 11kv transmission lines properly fixed, no action had been taken.

As a consequence, during a strong wind, the transmission lines swung, collided and the resultant short circuit left the girl severely burnt. The poor girl had to have both her arms amputated as doctors struggled to save her life.

The girl’s life has been ruined due to the unpardonable negligence of Iesco staff. Justice demands that in addition to puni-tive action against the Iesco, free trans-plant of artificial arms and adequate financial compensation must be arranged for the victim.

The relevant authorities should act promptly in favour of the affected family. The casual and indifferent attitude of most government functionaries is one of the elements affecting national progress.

Almaee Jafri
Lahore

Published in Dawn, February 17th, 2025