Power theft is a serious issue that threatens both safety and infrastructure. To combat this, utility companies frequently conduct drives to identify and remove illegal “kunda” connections. These campaigns are crucial for community safety, but they also require public awareness and cooperation to be effective. Illegal ‘kunda’ connections bypass meters and safety systems, overloading transformers, causing...
Power theft, often done through illegal “kunda” connections, may seem like a shortcut to avoid electricity bills, but it carries deadly risks. Beyond financial losses for utility companies, these unauthorized connections put lives at risk, and can lead to devastating accidents. The Safety Risks Electrocution Hazards Kunda connections bypass safety meters and wiring regulations. Exposed wires and makeshift...
Electricity theft — through illegal connections, meter tampering, or line tapping — is a widespread problem in Pakistan. Its consequences go far beyond just financial loss. 1 Financial Strain on Utilities Theft reduces revenue for electricity providers, making it difficult for them to maintain and upgrade infrastructure. In Pakistan, a staggering Rs585 billion worth losses are incurred...
Electricity theft continues to plague Pakistan’s power sector, fueling massive revenue losses, supply instabilities, and the ever-growing circular debt. Despite intensified enforcement efforts, the issue remains deeply rooted — demanding tougher penalties, greater accountability, and long-term systemic reform. Since September 1, 2023, a nationwide anti-theft campaign has recovered Rs 152.5 billion from individuals and businesses involved...
Power theft, often referred to as ‘kunda’ culture, isn’t just a drain on the system—it’s a crime that puts lives, infrastructure, and entire communities at risk. From frequent power outages to voltage fluctuations that damage appliances, the consequences are far-reaching. In cities like Karachi, the impact of power theft is felt by everyone, not just the...
Power theft, the illegal and unauthorized use of electricity, has become a widespread menace in Pakistan, affecting not just utility companies but also entire communities. It involves practices such as tampering with meters, or tapping directly into power lines, commonly referred to as the kunda system. This crime not only leads to significant financial losses...
It is frustrating if you face long power outages despite being a responsible citizen and paying bills on time because you live in an area with a high prevalence of power theft. Electricity theft and non-payment of bills are two major factors that determine the loss profile of an area. This implies that many power...
Power theft, a serious criminal offense, is rampant across Pakistan, costing the nation billions of rupees annually. Energy Minister Awais Leghari recently revealed that a staggering Rs 600 billion worth of electricity is stolen every year. According to NEPRA's latest State of the Industry report, distribution companies lost over 19.17 billion units, or 16.4% of...
Power theft is a pervasive problem in cities across Pakistan, affecting the stability and safety of electrical grids, inflating costs for consumers, and creating significant safety hazards. Understanding the types and impacts of power theft highlights the importance of addressing this issue through awareness, improved infrastructure, and strict enforcement. Here are some types of power theft: Direct...
