Karachi, In a joint effort to combat power theft, K-Electric (KE) and the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) have conducted more than 13 operations in Karachi and its surrounding regions, targeting areas prone to illegal electricity connections. This initiative is part of a broader crackdown to safeguard electrical infrastructure and reduce line losses in the Sindh and Balochistan areas served by KE.
According to K-Electric, the recent operations, particularly in March 2024, focused on localities such as Marora Goth, Peer Abad, and Ellahi Colony Metroville, leading to significant outcomes including the lodging of six FIRs and the arrest of four individuals involved in power theft. Three of these individuals have been remanded to jail custody, while one was released after settling dues. Additionally, a total of PKR 44.33 million in fines has been imposed to reinforce governance and accountability measures. In a parallel effort, FIA Balochistan and KE teams have also targeted anti-theft operations in Hub, inspecting various markets, shopping plazas, and residential premises.
The partnership between KE and law enforcement agencies is part of ongoing daily operations that have included over 24,000 kunda removal drives since the start of the fiscal year 2023-24. These efforts have led to the removal of over 190,000 illegal connections and the seizure of more than 260,000 kilograms of illegal kunda wires.
The national campaign against power theft, initiated in September 2023, has identified over 100,000 cases of electricity theft involving 180 million units within KE's service territory. KE reports that while 71% of its feeder network is load-shed free, 29% continues to face challenges, particularly in areas like Baldia and Surjani, where power theft and non-payment of bills are prevalent.
A KE spokesperson highlighted the importance of these anti-theft measures, noting that power theft not only affects service delivery but also compromises the safety of the power network. The spokesperson also pointed out that an amount of PKR 117 million has been recovered through these efforts.
In response to the challenges posed by the current economic conditions, including high inflation, KE has initiated facilitation camps across the city to assist customers. Since July 2023, over 240 recovery camps have been held, helping resolve billing issues and facilitating payment plans for customers.