Nepra fines K-Electric Rs10m for safety lapses

ISLAMABAD: The National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (Nepra) on Wednesday fined K-Electric Rs10 million for failing to implement adequate safety measures, which resulted in 33 fatalities during the 2022-23 fiscal year in the company's service territory.

Among the incidents reviewed, Nepra cited the death of Muhammad Aslam, a contractor, as a case where K-Electric's negligence in following safety protocols led to his death.

According to the regulator, the fatality occurred due to improper isolation of the high-tension/low-tension (HT/LT) system and lack of site supervision by K-Electric personnel. The work, Nepra said, was carried out in a disorganized and unsafe manner, contributing to the tragedy.

In addition to the fine, Nepra ordered K-Electric to compensate Aslam’s family with Rs3.5 million and provide a job to his next of kin. The company has two months to submit proof of compliance to the regulatory body.

Earlier, Nepra had issued a show-cause notice to K-Electric on August 30, 2023, for violating performance standards, the distribution code, and safety regulations. After K-Electric's response on September 14, 2023, and a subsequent hearing on May 13, 2024, Nepra rejected the company's defensce, specifically regarding the death of Muhammad Aslam.

K-Electric has been ordered to pay the Rs10 million fine to a designated Nepra bank account within 15 days of the order.

However, remaining 32 victims were not compensated due to their involvement in activities such as theft, drug-related accidents, or unauthorized access to K-Electric infrastructure. Many of these incidents were tied to illegal attempts to tamper with the power network, often leading to electrocution. Since these cases were categorized as illegal interference, they did not meet the criteria for compensation.