ISLAMABAD: In significant development, International Monetary Fund (IMF) has given green light to relief plan of Rs 15 billion which aimed to give financial relief to electricity consumers in Pakistan.

International Monetary Fund has approved provision of relief to electricity consumers. News was shared by Finance Ministry which said that caretaker Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar would get Cabinet approval of plan through summary circulation.

Sources close to matter revealed that Federal Board of Revenue played pivotal role in securing this relief from IMF, adding that FBR has exceeded expectations by collecting an impressive amount of Rs 20 billion in excess taxes.

IMF's decision to grant relief of Rs 15 billion aimed at relieving financial burden on electricity consumers-is testament to commendable performance of FBR.

Relief package is expected to provide substantial benefits to consumers with up to 200 units of electricity consumption. Sources suggest that consumers falling within this category can anticipate relief ranging from Rs 3 to Rs 4 per unit on their electricity bills.

Furthermore, there will be provisions for delayed payments, ensuring that these consumers do not face penalties for late payments.

However, IMF set condition that consumers exceeding 400 units of electricity consumption will not be eligible for this relief.

Sources claimed that final approval for deferred payments and relief package will be granted by Cabinet.

Sources estimated that from this relief at least 64 percent of those using up to 200 units of electricity across country will get benefited, moreover, late payments of consumers falling in category will not get usual 10 percent penalty.

Published in The Daily National Courier, September, 08 2023

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