In a major policy shift aimed at modernizing the electricity billing process, the Government of Pakistan has decided to eliminate the role of manual meter readers in all power distribution companies (Discos), except Karachi Electric (KE). Under the newly approved initiative “Apna Meter Apni Reading,” consumers will now be responsible for recording and submitting their electricity meter readings through a smartphone app.
Digital Transformation in the Energy Sector
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif approved this move on June 17, 2025, marking a significant step towards digital governance in the energy sector. The plan includes a nationwide rollout of the Power Smart App, which is designed to streamline electricity billing and enhance transparency by eliminating manual errors caused by meter readers. The app will be launched within a month following a soft launch to fix technical glitches.
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The government has allocated Rs. 316 million to develop, test, and promote this app. To ensure ease of use, the application will be available in five languages, including English and four regional languages, making it more accessible to a wider population.
Benefits of the New System
According to officials, the shift will reduce administrative overheads and increase transparency. The savings from eliminating meter reader salaries and logistics will be redirected to provide consumer benefits, potentially leading to more efficient billing and service delivery.
Additionally, this move aims to reduce overbilling complaints by allowing consumers to directly participate in the billing process. It also aligns with Pakistan’s broader strategy of embracing digital solutions in public services.
Challenges and Public Concerns
While many have welcomed the initiative for its forward-thinking approach, it has also raised concerns. App reliability, especially in rural or low-connectivity areas, remains a key issue. The development team is addressing poor photo quality, submission errors, and offline functionality during the testing phase.
Moreover, the abrupt dismissal of thousands of meter readers has sparked worries about job losses and potential legal challenges. Many people believe the government should introduce a transition plan or retraining program to support the affected workforce.
Conclusion
The “Apna Meter Apni Reading” initiative is a bold attempt to bring efficiency, accuracy, and transparency to Pakistan’s power sector. However, its success will depend on the reliability of the app, user adoption, and how the government handles the socio-economic implications of removing meter readers.
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