Power Regulator Slams Discos Over Fatal Safety Failures
Pakistan's National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) has taken strict action against three power distribution companies in Punjab, imposing hefty fines totaling Rs57.5 million for fatal accidents that claimed 30 human lives during the 2023-24 fiscal year.
The regulatory body issued separate decisions against Lahore Electric Supply Company (LESCO), Gujranwala Electric Power Company (GEPCO), and Faisalabad Electric Supply Company (FESCO) after investigating multiple fatal incidents in their service territories.
Breakdown of Fines and Fatalities
According to NEPRA's orders, LESCO faces the largest penalty of Rs30 million for accidents that resulted in 13 deaths. The company reported 12 accidents that killed eight employees, two members of the public, and one contractor.
GEPCO received a Rs17.5 million fine for eight accidents that caused nine fatalities, including four employees and five civilians. Meanwhile, FESCO was fined Rs10 million for eight accidents leading to eight deaths, comprising five employees, two public members, and one contractor.
Systemic Negligence Exposed
NEPRA strongly criticized the discos for attempting to shift blame onto individual workers rather than acknowledging management failures. The regulator described LESCO's response to the show-cause notice as "entirely devoid of merit, factually incorrect, and representing a clear attempt to shift accountability".
Similarly, GEPCO was faulted for focusing blame on deceased individuals and their supervisors without addressing operational lapses. NEPRA noted this reflected "a deeply disturbing disregard for safety obligations".
While FESCO accepted responsibility for two employee accidents, the regulator emphasized this indicated "a systemic failure across the organization".
Compensation and Employment Directives
Beyond financial penalties, NEPRA has mandated compensation for victims' families. GEPCO received specific instructions to provide employment for Ms. Samra Shahzadi, wife of victim Imran Khan, and compensate the family of Samar Abbas.
All three companies must deposit their fines within 15 days or face recovery actions, including treatment as land revenue arrears. The authority reserved the right to initiate additional legal proceedings for non-compliance.
The decisions highlight ongoing safety concerns in Pakistan's power distribution sector and NEPRA's increasing strictness regarding consumer and employee protection.
