The Faisalabad Electric Supply Company, or FESCO, is planning to upgrade the electrical systems of the historical clock tower Chowk located in Faisalabad. To control short circuits, the company has embarked upon a Rs 700 million project of replacing worn-out wires with cables, connectors, and piping at eight bazaars around the township.
The project is said to start soon, especially after the district administration has released the funds, confirmed FESCO Chief Executive Engr. Muhammad Amir.
Project Highlights and Goals
In light of these headings, the major aim of this project entails provision of safer means and much more reliable power supply in the one of the most prominent business areas of Faisalabad. When asked regarding the usefulness of the initiative, Engr. Muhammad Amir supported the idea, asserting the fact that it will reduce short circuits, provide constant power to the area, and increase the level of safety of the given area as well.
Consumer Complaints and Monitoring
Similarly, consumers should report their electricity issues, and those in dire need of help can call at 118, according to Engr. Muhammad Amir. He was equally confident that he has responsibility of overseeing the complaint resolution system. At the sub-division level, specific teams have been created for attending to the consumers’ complaints, especially those occasioned by the effects of excessive rainfall.
Relief for Consumers: Changes in Electricity Bill
FESCO has provided a major reprieve for consumers as it has initiated offering a Rs 14 per unit discount to consumers using electricity in between 201 units and 500 units. Consumers from batch 1-11 have been issued with corrected invoices, which factor in this relief. In addition, FESCO has postponed the due dates of these bills by 5-7 days and this bill downloading services are provided online.
No tolerance for Corruption and Power Theft
Current major changes in FESCO’s management strategy include a no-tolerance policy to the theft of electricity and corruption within its own ranks. According to Engr. Muhammad Amir, appropriate measures are taken against violators inside the organization. Besides, he makes his doors open to consumers who have issues that have not been resolved by the company.
Improved Consumer Experience
Due to these efforts, FESCO has been very successful in the reduction of the complaints from clients on overbilling. According to Engr. Muhammad Amir, they are doing well, but, on a serious note, he said, ‘There were some problems regarding overbilling, but no one gives any complaints to FESCO anymore.
Collaboration with Key Stakeholders
Some of the personalities present at the meeting included Haji Mohammad Aslam Bhali, the Vice President, Faisalabad Chamber of Commerce & Industry, Supreme Anjuman Tajran City, Faisalabad, Sheikh Qaiser Shams Guchha District Chairman Baitul Mal, & the Central Chairman, Pakistan Yarn Merchants Association. They articulated the Company’s concerns and promised to support FESCO activities.
FAQs
Q1. What are the expected costs of the FESCO project?
A1. Under this project, it is expected to incur an expenditure of Rs 700 million.
Q2. Where can consumers lodge complaints related to electricity?
A2. On the same note, consumers can submit complaints, which are usually responded to immediately by calling the toll-free number 118.
Q3. What consumers will be relieved by FESCO?
A3. Consumers who consume 201-500 units get a Rs 14 per unit discount and are billed with revised electricity bills.
Q4. What measures is FESCO employing in the fight against power theft?
A4. Anti-power theft and corruption remain a major thorn in FESCO’s operation, and huge steps have been taken to eliminate the vice.
Q5. What has FESCO done to enhance the complaint system?
A5. FESCO has established the related teams at the sub-division level and has increased payment time limits for consumers.
