Iesco introduces digital meter reading system in Rawalpindi

Rawalpindi
The Islamabad Electric Supply Company (Iesco) has introduced mobile meter reading system to ensure correct meter readings to address the ever-increasing problem of overbilling.
The mobile meter reading system has been launched in different localities of Rawalpindi.
The Islamabad Electric Supply Company (Iesco) has provided modern digital mobiles to meter readers to take pictures of domestic and commercial meters for correct reading. The pictures of meters along with correct reading taken by digital mobiles would be printed on bills. Consumers could easily see readings on bills. During the current month, the majority of consumers have gotten bills with meter reading pictures.
Islamabad Electric Supply Company (Iesco) Sub-Divisional Officer (SDO) Malik Dost Muhammad told ‘The News’ that they have started mobile meter readings to avoid any kind of corruption or baseless readings. There are numberless complaints about overbilling because of incorrect meter readings. Such kinds of problems would end, he claimed.
He also said that they are taking strict action against irresponsible officials for failing to address the grievances of consumers. He said meter readers have now been given latest camera phones to take pictures of meters. “This month’s electricity bills will include photographs of meters,” he claimed.
On the other hand, the Iesco would begin installing smart meters to ensure correct meter readings to address the problem of overbilling.
Reliable sources said that the proposal for the project was in final stages and the project would be completed in three years with financial assistance from the Asian Development Bank (ADB).
According to Iesco Chief Executive Officer Muhammad Yousaf Awan, smart meters would be installed in houses, transformers and grid stations. Complaints of wrong meter readings would now be resolved. Smart meters would also allow consumers to manage their electricity usage. New grid stations were constructed at Chakri, Sangjani and Bhara Kahu, with assistance from the ADB. Some grids were upgraded to address issues of low voltage.
The Iesco is also launching a Customer Relationship Management (CRM) service shortly to address consumer complaints. Through the system, complaints regarding overbilling, loadshedding and other issues would be registered through SMS. The service is being launched in Islamabad and Rawalpindi initially and would gradually be extended to all areas served by the company.