The government is providing free electricity worth billions of rupees annually to both serving and retired employees in the power sector. This benefit is part of their employment terms, alongside other perks like medical care and housing. According to recent reports, a total of 441.5 million electricity units are provided free of cost each year to nearly 200,000 employees working in public and corporate sector entities.
Out of the total, 308.2 million units are allocated to serving employees, while 133.2 million units go to retired employees. These free electricity units are a standard part of the service package for employees of government-owned power sector companies, such as distribution companies (Discos), which alone account for around 149,000 employees receiving free electricity annually.
In a detailed response to the National Assembly, the Power Division emphasized that such benefits are not unique to the power sector. Similar perks are offered in other state-run organizations, including Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited (SNGPL), Sui Southern Gas Company (SSGC), Pakistan Railways, and Pakistan Telecommunication Company Limited (PTCL).
The Power Division has justified this practice, claiming that these benefits were agreed upon as part of the employees’ service terms. The division also pointed out that these perks help attract and retain skilled workers in government entities, making them an essential part of the employment package.
However, the provision of free electricity on such a large scale has sparked discussions among the public. Many citizens question whether such perks are sustainable in the face of rising energy costs and financial challenges faced by the power sector.
This issue is likely to remain in focus as the country continues to grapple with energy shortages and the burden of subsidies. While the benefits for employees are well-established, their long-term impact on the economy and power sector finances may require further evaluation.
This news sheds light on the significant privileges enjoyed by power sector employees, offering a glimpse into the broader structure of benefits provided in state-run organizations.
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