Electricity Meter Reading Goes Digital
The app's launch is part of a broader effort to improve the efficiency and transparency of the electricity billing system, with the government aiming to eliminate the role of meter readers and reduce overbilling. The initiative is expected to benefit consumers across the country, except in Karachi Electric's service area.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has approved the launch of a mobile app called "Apna Meter, Apni Reading" that will enable electricity consumers to upload their own meter readings, eliminating the need for meter readers and bringing transparency in billing.
The app, which will be available in Urdu and four regional languages, is part of the government's plan to introduce self-metering across the country. This move aims to reduce overbilling and malpractice, which have been associated with traditional meter reading methods. The Power Division has been instructed to make a soft launch of the app immediately and prepare a comprehensive plan to eliminate meter readers within a month.
A nationwide media campaign will be launched to educate consumers on the benefits of self-meter reading, with the government allocating Rs. 316 million for this purpose. The initiative also includes the launch of other apps, such as Power Smart App, CCMS+, and Lineman Mobile Solution, to increase accessibility and user satisfaction. The Prime Minister has directed that any administrative cost savings from removing meter readers be passed on to consumers.
The phasing out of meter readers will apply to power distribution companies (Discos) across Pakistan, except in Karachi Electric's service area. The new mechanism will enable consumers to read their own electricity meters and report any discrepancies in their bills. This move is expected to bring greater transparency and accountability to the electricity billing system.
The launch of the "Apna Meter, Apni Reading" app marks a significant step towards digitalizing the electricity meter reading process in Pakistan. With its user-friendly interface and availability in multiple languages, the app is expected to make it easier for consumers to manage their electricity usage and bills.