Pakistan Launches “Apna Meter, Apni Reading” App to Empower Consumers
Islamabad, June 2025 — Under the leadership of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, the Pakistani government has introduced a new mobile application titled Power Smart, also known as “Apna Meter, Apni Reading.” This initiative marks a major reform in the electricity sector—empowering consumers to submit their own meter readings and validate monthly bills.1,2
🛠What the App Does
- Enables users to photograph their electricity meter on a specific due date and upload it directly via the app for billing.2,3
- If multiple readings are submitted, only the consumer’s entry is prioritized—effective protection against overbilling.3,10
- Especially beneficial for subsidy‑eligible consumers, ensuring timely readings prevent unwanted tariff jumps above 200 units.2,6
Why It Matters
For years, Pakistan’s electricity sector has been plagued by inaccurate meter readings, delayed billing, and overcharges—leaving many consumers frustrated.0,4 By enabling self-reporting:
- Consumers gain more control over their billing data.
- Meter readers will be phased out, reducing corruption and administrative costs—savings that will benefit consumers.0,9
- Transparency increases, likely reducing corruption and powering reforms in DISCOS.
Key Implementation Details
- Developed in Urdu and four regional languages (Punjabi, Sindhi, Pashto, Balochi) to ensure nationwide accessibility.4,5
- Soft launch planned to identify any technical glitches, followed by a full rollout.0,9
- A dedicated public awareness campaign with ₹316 million (~US$1.1 million) budget is underway.0,9
- Initial deployment excludes Karachi Electric’s network, which is privately operated.0,8
Reform Highlights
At the app launch ceremony, PM Shehbaz Sharif also announced: the removal of the monthly Rs 35 PTV fee from electricity bills; continued support for the solarization boom; and intensified efforts to combat electricity theft, which the government estimates costs roughly Rs 500 billion annually.1,6
What Consumers Should Do Next
- Download the Power Smart / Apna Meter Apni Reading app from Google Play Store or App Store.
- Submit readings/uploads on or before your scheduled meter‑reading date.
- Keep records (photos/images) in case of billing disputes.
- Stay informed by following DISCO notifications and news on rollout updates.
Conclusion
The launch of “Apna Meter, Apni Reading” marks a significant milestone in Pakistan’s energy sector reform. By giving meter-reading power to consumers, the government aims to enhance transparency, reduce overbilling, and usher in a consumer‑centric billing system. With its regional language support and consumer-friendly features, this app has the potential to reshape the electricity experience for millions across the country.