PESCO enforces austerity plan to cut costs, maintain essential services

PESHAWAR, Mar 25 (APP): Peshawar Electric Supply Company (PESCO) has introduced a comprehensive austerity plan in line with government directives to promote financial discipline and optimize resource utilization amid the prevailing economic situation.

Chief Executive Officer Engr Akhtar Hamid Khan said the measures have been implemented with immediate effect following instructions from the Government of Pakistan and the Ministry of Energy (Power Division).

Under the initiative, PESCO has adopted a four-day work week from Monday to Thursday, while Fridays will be observed as a work-from-home day. However, essential field operations including power restoration, consumer complaint handling, recovery of dues, bill distribution and meter reading will continue uninterrupted.

As part of cost-cutting measures, around 60 percent of official vehicles have been grounded for two months, while fuel allocation has been reduced by 50 percent.

Officers have been directed to limit field visits, with vehicle usage restricted to emergency duties subject to prior approval.

The CEO said procurement of new durable items has been suspended until June 2026, while senior officers in BPS-20 and above drawing salaries of Rs300,000 or more have been encouraged to voluntarily contribute two days’ salary in support of the initiative.

He added that meetings and hearings are now being conducted virtually, while electricity consumption is being curtailed by reducing the use of air conditioners and lighting in offices by 50 percent.

The company has also suspended official dinners at its expense during this period.

The measures aim to ensure prudent financial management while maintaining uninterrupted services to consumers, he added.