Govt to Phase Out Electricity Meter Readers And Let Consumers Count Their Units

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has approved a plan to phase out meter readers in all power distribution companies (Discos), except in Karachi Electric’s service area. A new self-meter reading app “Apna Meter Apni Reading” will soon be launched. In a high-level meeting on June 17, 2025, the Prime Minister directed the Power Division to launch the Power Smart Mobile App in both national and regional languages to ensure accessibility for all users. A soft launch will be carried out first to resolve any technical issues. The government has allocated Rs. 316 million for this campaign. The Power Division has been given one month to finalize a detailed plan to eliminate the role of meter readers. The campaign’s Terms of Reference (ToR) define the scope, roles, and responsibilities, with a specific responsibility matrix for PITC and MEPCO on planning, execution, and monitoring. Key applications to be launched include Power Smart App, Apna Meter Apni Reading, CCMS+, and Lineman Mobile Solution. These will undergo thorough testing to ensure reliability and user satisfaction. The Prime Minister has also directed that any administrative cost savings from removing meter readers be passed on to consumers.