Astounding hike in meter fees by IESCO leaves consumers bamboozled 

The Islamabad Electric Supply Company (IESCO) has dropped a bombshell on consumers by announcing a mindboggling increase in the meter fees, reported 24NewsHD TV channel on Saturday. 

A single-phase meter, which previously would cost Rs11,000, will now cost Rs35,000, while a three-phase meter will now be installed at the cost of Rs85,000.     

The new rates will apply to consumers in Rawalpindi, Cantonment and Taxila regions with immediate effect. 

On the other hand, in an important development in the privatization of three power distribution companies (Discos) namely Islamabad Electric Supply Company (IESCO), Faisalabad Electric Supply Company (FESCO) and Gujranwala Electric Power Company (GEPCO), they have been barred from making new recruitments, announcing promotions and incentives for its employees unless they seek permission from the Privatization Commission.  

Sources have told 24News TV channel that similarly, it has also been made obligatory for these companies to seek permission from the commission before signing any contract. 

Sources have also informed that the companies have been directed to keep their records and account books updated. 

A financial advisor has already been appointed for the privatization of these Discos. 

Apart from that a committee has also been constituted for their privatization, sources have said.      

Reporters: Awais Kiani and Waqas Azeem