• About Us
  • Cookie Policy
  • Privacy Policy
  • Disclaimer
  • Contact Us
Tuesday, August 5, 2025
  • Login
No Result
View All Result
Time Line News
  • Home
  • Latest News
  • Pakistan
  • World
  • Business
  • Sports
  • Entertainment
    Indian Actress and Former MP Divya Spandana Receives Death and Rape Threats: Two Arrested in Bengaluru

    Indian Actress and Former MP Divya Spandana Receives Death and Rape Threats: Two Arrested in Bengaluru

    Bangladeshi YouTuber and Actress Shanta Pal Arrested in India for Possession of Fake Documents

    Bangladeshi YouTuber and Actress Shanta Pal Arrested in India for Possession of Fake Documents

    Saba Qamar Rushed to ICU After Sudden Health Decline During Drama Shoot: Full Story, Reaction, and Recovery

    Saba Qamar Rushed to ICU After Sudden Health Decline During Drama Shoot: Full Story, Reaction, and Recovery

    The Triumph of Love: How "Saiyaara" Became a Global Box Office Sensation

    The Triumph of Love: How “Saiyaara” Became a Global Box Office Sensation

    Hira Mani Reveals the True Secret to Happiness: It's Not Expensive Clothes or Luxury Cars

    Hira Mani Reveals the True Secret to Happiness: It’s Not Expensive Clothes or Luxury Cars

    Shocking Revelations in Humaira Asghar Case: Chemical Report Raises Suspicion in Actress's Mysterious Death

    Shocking Revelations in Humaira Asghar Case: Chemical Report Raises Suspicion in Actress’s Mysterious Death

    Rajab Butt’s Married Life in Crisis: Social Media Clashes and Family Tensions Unfold

    Rajab Butt’s Married Life in Crisis: Social Media Clashes and Family Tensions Unfold

    Why Bushra Ansari Divorced Her Husband After 38 Years: The Actress Shares Her Story

    Why Bushra Ansari Divorced Her Husband After 38 Years: The Actress Shares Her Story

    Zara Noor Abbas Sparks Vital Conversation on Joint Family System: Fans Applaud Her Heartfelt Tribute to Tradition

    Zara Noor Abbas Sparks Vital Conversation on Joint Family System: Fans Applaud Her Heartfelt Tribute to Tradition

  • Technology
    WhatsApp Introduces Voice Chat Support with Meta AI: A New Era of Conversational AI Integration

    WhatsApp Introduces Voice Chat Support with Meta AI: A New Era of Conversational AI Integration

    Samsung Gears Up to Launch Three New Tablets: Galaxy Tab S11, S11 Ultra, and S10 Lite

    Samsung Gears Up to Launch Three New Tablets: Galaxy Tab S11, S11 Ultra, and S10 Lite

    Global Renewable Energy Generation Set to Grow by Just 2%: A Wake-Up Call for Climate Commitments

    Global Renewable Energy Generation Set to Grow by Just 2%: A Wake-Up Call for Climate Commitments

    WhatsApp’s New Offline Competitor: Jack Dorsey Launches Decentralized Bluetooth Messaging App

    WhatsApp’s New Offline Competitor: Jack Dorsey Launches Decentralized Bluetooth Messaging App

    How Do Black Boxes in Airplanes Survive Even the Most Devastating Accidents?

    How Do Black Boxes in Airplanes Survive Even the Most Devastating Accidents?

    Samsung Galaxy S25 FE: Key Specs, Storage Options, and Color Leaks Surface Ahead of Official Launch

    Samsung Galaxy S25 FE: Key Specs, Storage Options, and Color Leaks Surface Ahead of Official Launch

    Trending Tags

    • Sillicon Valley
    • Climate Change
    • Election Results
    • Flat Earth
    • Golden Globes
    • MotoGP 2017
    • Mr. Robot
  • Health
  • Editorial
    • Blog
    • Opinion
  • E-Paper
  • Home
  • Latest News
  • Pakistan
  • World
  • Business
  • Sports
  • Entertainment
    Indian Actress and Former MP Divya Spandana Receives Death and Rape Threats: Two Arrested in Bengaluru

    Indian Actress and Former MP Divya Spandana Receives Death and Rape Threats: Two Arrested in Bengaluru

    Bangladeshi YouTuber and Actress Shanta Pal Arrested in India for Possession of Fake Documents

    Bangladeshi YouTuber and Actress Shanta Pal Arrested in India for Possession of Fake Documents

    Saba Qamar Rushed to ICU After Sudden Health Decline During Drama Shoot: Full Story, Reaction, and Recovery

    Saba Qamar Rushed to ICU After Sudden Health Decline During Drama Shoot: Full Story, Reaction, and Recovery

    The Triumph of Love: How "Saiyaara" Became a Global Box Office Sensation

    The Triumph of Love: How “Saiyaara” Became a Global Box Office Sensation

    Hira Mani Reveals the True Secret to Happiness: It's Not Expensive Clothes or Luxury Cars

    Hira Mani Reveals the True Secret to Happiness: It’s Not Expensive Clothes or Luxury Cars

    Shocking Revelations in Humaira Asghar Case: Chemical Report Raises Suspicion in Actress's Mysterious Death

    Shocking Revelations in Humaira Asghar Case: Chemical Report Raises Suspicion in Actress’s Mysterious Death

    Rajab Butt’s Married Life in Crisis: Social Media Clashes and Family Tensions Unfold

    Rajab Butt’s Married Life in Crisis: Social Media Clashes and Family Tensions Unfold

    Why Bushra Ansari Divorced Her Husband After 38 Years: The Actress Shares Her Story

    Why Bushra Ansari Divorced Her Husband After 38 Years: The Actress Shares Her Story

    Zara Noor Abbas Sparks Vital Conversation on Joint Family System: Fans Applaud Her Heartfelt Tribute to Tradition

    Zara Noor Abbas Sparks Vital Conversation on Joint Family System: Fans Applaud Her Heartfelt Tribute to Tradition

  • Technology
    WhatsApp Introduces Voice Chat Support with Meta AI: A New Era of Conversational AI Integration

    WhatsApp Introduces Voice Chat Support with Meta AI: A New Era of Conversational AI Integration

    Samsung Gears Up to Launch Three New Tablets: Galaxy Tab S11, S11 Ultra, and S10 Lite

    Samsung Gears Up to Launch Three New Tablets: Galaxy Tab S11, S11 Ultra, and S10 Lite

    Global Renewable Energy Generation Set to Grow by Just 2%: A Wake-Up Call for Climate Commitments

    Global Renewable Energy Generation Set to Grow by Just 2%: A Wake-Up Call for Climate Commitments

    WhatsApp’s New Offline Competitor: Jack Dorsey Launches Decentralized Bluetooth Messaging App

    WhatsApp’s New Offline Competitor: Jack Dorsey Launches Decentralized Bluetooth Messaging App

    How Do Black Boxes in Airplanes Survive Even the Most Devastating Accidents?

    How Do Black Boxes in Airplanes Survive Even the Most Devastating Accidents?

    Samsung Galaxy S25 FE: Key Specs, Storage Options, and Color Leaks Surface Ahead of Official Launch

    Samsung Galaxy S25 FE: Key Specs, Storage Options, and Color Leaks Surface Ahead of Official Launch

    Trending Tags

    • Sillicon Valley
    • Climate Change
    • Election Results
    • Flat Earth
    • Golden Globes
    • MotoGP 2017
    • Mr. Robot
  • Health
  • Editorial
    • Blog
    • Opinion
  • E-Paper
No Result
View All Result
Time Line News
No Result
View All Result
Home Latest News

Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif Announces Removal of PTV Fee from Electricity Bills, Launches “Apna Meter Apni Reading” App to Curb Overbilling

by Web Desk
June 29, 2025
in Latest News, Pakistan
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif Announces Removal of PTV Fee from Electricity Bills, Launches "Apna Meter Apni Reading" App to Curb Overbilling
Share on FacebookShare on Twitter

ISLAMABAD – In a major relief for electricity consumers across Pakistan, Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif on Thursday announced the removal of the Pakistan Television (PTV) license fee from electricity bills. The move is part of a broader set of reforms aimed at bringing transparency, affordability, and efficiency to the country’s troubled power sector.

The announcement was made during the official launch ceremony of the “Apna Meter Apni Reading” mobile application, a citizen-centric initiative designed to empower electricity consumers by allowing them to record and submit their own meter readings, thereby reducing the chances of overbilling, fraud, and human error.

The Prime Minister’s remarks signaled a renewed commitment to not only protect the rights of consumers but also to streamline utility billing and crack down on corruption and theft in the energy sector.


PTV Fee Removal: A Longstanding Consumer Demand Addressed

For years, electricity consumers across Pakistan have voiced concerns over the mandatory PTV license fee, which was included as a fixed charge in electricity bills—regardless of whether a household owned a television or watched PTV channels. Currently, the fee stands at Rs 35 per month for domestic users and Rs 60 for commercial connections, collected by distribution companies on behalf of the state-run broadcaster.

This fee, viewed as an unjust burden on already overburdened consumers, had become a symbol of outdated policies and forced taxation. Consumer rights groups and civil society organizations had repeatedly called for its removal or rationalization, especially in light of declining PTV viewership and growing preference for digital and satellite-based media.

“This is a decision made with the public’s best interest in mind. We understand the pressures of inflation and the economic situation our citizens face. Removing the PTV fee is a step towards fairer billing practices,” said Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif during the launch event.

The decision is expected to provide direct financial relief to millions of households, and is being hailed as a people-friendly reform, especially as inflation, fuel prices, and electricity tariffs continue to weigh heavily on middle- and lower-income segments.


“Apna Meter Apni Reading” App: Empowering Consumers Through Technology

At the core of the Prime Minister’s announcement was the launch of the “Apna Meter Apni Reading” app, a digital initiative by the Ministry of Energy to combat chronic issues of overbilling, faulty meter readings, and lack of transparency in electricity billing.

The app allows consumers to:

  • Take and upload pictures of their meter readings
  • Submit their own readings before the official billing date
  • Track their electricity usage
  • File complaints related to billing or meter accuracy

This system is designed to empower consumers while also holding power distribution companies (DISCOs) accountable for accurate billing.

“For far too long, people have suffered due to estimated or manipulated bills. With this app, we are putting the power back into the hands of consumers,” said the Prime Minister.

He added that the Ministry of Energy and its IT teams worked tirelessly to develop and test the app across various pilot regions before launching it nationwide.


Addressing Power Sector Challenges: Reforms and Anti-Corruption Drive

In his speech, Prime Minister Sharif emphasized that these steps are part of wider structural reforms in the power sector, which has long been plagued by corruption, mismanagement, and technical and commercial losses.

He noted that strict measures have been taken against corrupt elements operating within distribution companies, meter-reading units, and the transmission network. Multiple crackdowns have reportedly been launched in recent months to identify electricity theft, hold corrupt officials accountable, and recover losses from defaulters.

“Corrupt mafias have embedded themselves within the system. We are not just removing the weeds; we are cleaning the entire garden,” the Prime Minister remarked firmly.

He also stressed the urgent need to fast-track these reforms, acknowledging that the process so far has been slower than desired.


Tackling Overbilling and Inflated Meter Readings

One of the most frequent consumer complaints received by the Ministry of Energy and regional electric supply companies involves inflated or estimated bills, often caused by:

  • Inaccurate meter readings
  • Deliberate overestimation
  • Delayed visits by meter readers
  • Tampering or faulty equipment

With the “Apna Meter Apni Reading” app, the government aims to eliminate human error, discourage malpractice, and restore trust between consumers and electricity providers.

Officials believe that digital self-reporting, backed by photographic evidence and timestamp technology, will greatly reduce billing disputes, streamline data, and improve the financial health of distribution companies by reducing resistance to bill payment.


Reduction in Electricity Tariffs: A Complex Negotiation Process

The Prime Minister also spoke about the difficult negotiations held with Independent Power Producers (IPPs) to reduce electricity tariffs. These IPPs, which operate under long-term power purchase agreements, have been blamed for inflated capacity payments, which are passed on to consumers in the form of higher tariffs.

“Negotiating with IPPs was one of the most challenging tasks we’ve faced. But through tireless efforts, we have succeeded in reducing the financial burden on the national grid,” Sharif said.

He added that the benefits of reduced global oil prices had been partially transferred to the domestic electricity tariff structure, although exchange rate volatility and circular debt remain persistent challenges.


Electricity Theft: The Biggest Hurdle to Sectoral Stability

Despite the recent reforms, the Prime Minister acknowledged that electricity theft remains the biggest challenge in the energy sector. Losses from electricity theft are estimated to cost Pakistan over Rs 300 billion annually, pushing up costs for honest consumers and deepening the sector’s circular debt.

Areas with high losses and low recovery have become notorious for widespread illegal connections (kundas), meter tampering, and refusal to pay bills. The government has launched special enforcement drives in these areas with the help of law enforcement agencies and is looking to expand smart metering and remote monitoring technologies to detect and prevent theft in real-time.


Future Reforms and Roadmap

The Prime Minister concluded his address with a vision for a modern, transparent, and consumer-friendly electricity system. Key upcoming initiatives include:

  • Smart meter installations across urban and rural areas
  • Privatization or public-private partnerships (PPPs) for underperforming DISCOs
  • Investment in renewable energy sources to diversify the power mix
  • AI-based grid management systems for real-time monitoring and forecasting
  • Incentives for consumers to adopt solar energy solutions

He reiterated that the government remains committed to ensuring energy affordability, sustainability, and accessibility, and that the public’s support is crucial to making these reforms successful.


Conclusion: A Consumer-Centric Approach to Energy Reform

The removal of the PTV fee from electricity bills and the launch of the “Apna Meter Apni Reading” app mark significant strides toward building a more equitable and efficient energy system in Pakistan. These initiatives reflect the government’s growing emphasis on consumer empowerment, digital transformation, and anti-corruption within state-owned utilities.

While the journey ahead is riddled with challenges—from electricity theft to tariff rationalization and financial sustainability—the steps taken signal a positive policy shift rooted in transparency, technological innovation, and public accountability.

If sustained and supported by robust implementation, these reforms could serve as a turning point in Pakistan’s decades-old power crisis—ushering in a new era of citizen participation, fiscal responsibility, and sectoral resilience.

Read more:…

Tags: commissiongovernmentinternationalNationalsocial mediatime line news
Web Desk

Web Desk

Related Posts

PTI Faces Internal Divisions Over August 5 Protest Strategy: Uncertainty Looms Over Lahore Demonstrations

PTI Faces Internal Divisions Over August 5 Protest Strategy: Uncertainty Looms Over Lahore Demonstrations

by Web Desk
August 4, 2025
0

Introduction: PTI Calls for Nationwide Protest Amid Political Tensions Lahore — The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), one of the country’s most...

From Gwadar to Gilgit-Baltistan: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif Honors Police Force on Martyrs’ Day

From Gwadar to Gilgit-Baltistan: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif Honors Police Force on Martyrs’ Day

by Web Desk
August 4, 2025
0

Introduction: A Nation Pays Tribute to Its Brave Guardians Islamabad – On the solemn occasion of Police Martyrs’ Day, Prime...

Rank Pinning Ceremony Held at FIA Headquarters for Officers Promoted from Assistant Director (ADs) to Deputy Director (DDs)

Rank Pinning Ceremony Held at FIA Headquarters for Officers Promoted from Assistant Director (ADs) to Deputy Director (DDs)

by Web Desk
August 2, 2025
0

A rank pinning ceremony was held at the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) Headquarters, Islamabad, to honor officers promoted from the...

Toshakhana II Case Hearing Against Imran Khan Resumes at Adiala Jail Amid Tight Security

Toshakhana II Case Hearing Against Imran Khan Resumes at Adiala Jail Amid Tight Security

by Web Desk
August 2, 2025
0

Introduction: High-Stakes Legal Proceedings Continue Behind Bars Rawalpindi – In a significant development in Pakistan’s political and legal landscape, the...

8th Pakistan International Property Expo and Tourism Investment Conference in Karachi

8th Pakistan International Property Expo and Tourism Investment Conference in Karachi

by Web Desk
August 1, 2025
0

We will participate fully in the 8th Pakistan International Property Expo and Tourism Investment Conference in Karachi, Muhammad Hassan BakshiWe...

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recommended

JS Bank Records Consolidated Profit Before Tax of PKR 30.7 Billion in 2024

JS Bank Records Consolidated Profit Before Tax of PKR 30.7 Billion in 2024

5 months ago
Prime Minister’s Office not paying attention to Presidency directives, PPP claims

Prime Minister’s Office not paying attention to Presidency directives, PPP claims

6 months ago

Category

  • Home
  • Top Stories
  • Latest News
  • Pakistan
  • World
  • Business
  • Sports
  • Entertainment
  • Technology
  • Health
  • Lifestyle
  • Editorial
  • Blog
  • Opinion
  • E-Paper

Social Media

Facebook Instagram Twitter LinkedIn

About us

“Time Line News” is where knowledge meets enlightenment.

With a commitment to providing accurate, fair updates, we aim to be your go-to source for information on local and global events.

  • About Us
  • Cookie Policy
  • Privacy Policy
  • Disclaimer
  • Contact Us

Time Line News © 2024. All Rights Reserved. Website Designed & Developed by AK Web Solutions

No Result
View All Result
  • Home
  • Top Stories
  • Latest News
  • Pakistan
  • World
  • Business
  • Sports
  • Entertainment
  • Technology
  • Health
  • Lifestyle
  • Editorial
  • Blog
  • Opinion
  • E-Paper

Time Line News © 2024. All Rights Reserved. Website Designed & Developed by AK Web Solutions

Welcome Back!

Login to your account below

Forgotten Password?

Create New Account!

Fill the forms below to register

All fields are required. Log In

Retrieve your password

Please enter your username or email address to reset your password.

Log In