Apna Meter, Apni Reading: : LESCO Self Meter Reading 2025
LESCO’s transformative “Apna Meter, Apni Reading” with LESCO self meter reading initiative is democratizing electricity billing by putting control directly into consumers’ hands. In a bold response to years of billing disputes, the Lahore Electric Supply Company (LESCO) now enables 7.2 million consumers to self-report meter readings via SMS, web portals, and mobile apps. This shift from manual to user-driven readings combats overbilling and restores trust in a system plagued by human errors, particularly in high-loss areas like Kasur and Shalamar. Crucially, the program mirrors the accessibility of Pakistan’s 8171 helpline network, ensuring even non-tech-savvy users can participate through simple code-based submissions .
The Overbilling Crisis: Why Change Was Urgent
- Rs. 17B annual losses: 77 of 103 high-loss feeders in Kasur/Sheikhupura fueled billing inaccuracies .
- Consumer distrust: 68% of complaints (Jan-Apr 2025) cited inflated bills from estimated readings .
- Staff safety risks: Meter readers attacked in theft-prone areas during manual collection .
How LESCO Self Meter Reading Works: 3 Simple Steps
- Receive Notification: SMS alert with meter submission deadline (e.g., “LESCO: Submit reading by 25th via 80029 or web portal”) .
- Submit Reading: Options include:
- SMS: Send
MeterNo<space>Readingto 80029 - Online: Enter digits via LESCO Self-Service Portal
- App: Use LESO MIS app (Android/iOS)
- SMS: Send
- Get Verified Bill: Reading validated at control room; bill generated within 48 hours .
Consumer Benefits: Transparency & Control
| Advantage | Impact |
|---|---|
| Overbilling Prevention | Bills reflect actual usage; no estimated guesses |
| Dispute Resolution | Photo evidence submission option for contested readings |
| Peak-Hour Optimization | Track real-time usage via app to reduce consumption (5 PM–11 PM) |
| Theft Reporting | Anomaly alerts prompt inspections within 72 hours |
Challenges & LESCO’s Countermeasures
Adoption Barriers
- Literacy gaps: 42% of rural users unaware of submission methods .
- Connectivity issues: Poor internet in villages like Chunian delays digital entries .
LESCO’s Solutions
- Community Champions: 350 volunteers trained to assist neighbors in high-loss zones .
- Physical Kiosks: Submission booths at 22 LESCO offices (e.g., Allama Iqbal Town, Ferozepur Road) .
Phase Rollout & Impact (June 2025–Present)
| Timeline | Milestone | Consumer Reach |
|---|---|---|
| Phase 1 (Jun 2025) | SMS/web rollout in Lahore Metro | 1.2M users |
| Phase 2 (Aug 2025) | App launch + Kasur/Sheikhupura focus | 3.5M users |
| Phase 3 (Oct 2025) | Helpline integration + kiosks | 7.2M users |
Results to Date:
- 29% reduction in billing complaints .
- Rs. 4.23B recovered via theft detection in Shalamar Division .
- 87% user satisfaction in pilot zones (Gulberg, DHA) .
Future Roadmap: Toward Full Automation
- AMI Meter Integration: Link self-readings to 55,000 smart meters by 2026 .
- Automated Alerts: Custom SMS for voltage fluctuations/theft attempts .
- NEPRA Collaboration: Real-time data sharing for tariff adjustments .
The Bottom Line
Apna Meter, Apni Reading does more than fix bills—it redistributes power. LESCO’s self-reporting system turns consumers into active grid guardians. While hurdles remain in rural outreach, the program’s success in Lahore proves that accountability starts when users hold the pen.