A Brief History of LESCO

Foundations in WAPDA (1958-1982)

The electricity supply in Pakistan was initially overseen by a mix of public and private sector organizations. To streamline and centralize the development of water and power resources, the Water and Power Development Authority (WAPDA) was established in 1958 under the WAPDA Act. It marked a pivotal step in organizing the nation’s energy infrastructure.

Establishment of the Lahore Area Electricity Board (1982)

By 1982, WAPDA underwent structural decentralisation with the creation of eight Area Electricity Boards (AEBs), including the Lahore Area Electricity Board. This reorganisation aimed to enhance autonomy and foster provincial representation while incorporating input from elected representatives, industrialists, and agricultural stakeholders.

Transition to LESCO (1998)

Acknowledging global shifts in the energy sector, such as the move from monopolistic structures to privatisation, the Government of Pakistan introduced a Strategic Plan in 1994. This strategy resulted in the unbundling of WAPDA’s power wing into 12 independent companies for generation, transmission, and distribution of electricity.

On 22 March 1998, the Lahore Area Electricity Board was formally transformed into the Lahore Electric Supply Company (LESCO). This restructuring was driven by a vision for enhanced commercial efficiency and eventual privatisation.

Current Operational Scope

Today, LESCO is entrusted with the distribution of electricity across the civil districts of Lahore, Kasur, Okara, and Sheikhupura, serving as a backbone of energy supply in the region.

Operation Circles

1.            North Lahore Circle         6 Divisions / 31 Sub Divisions

2.            Central Lahore Circle       7 Divisions / 32 Sub Divisions

3.            Eastern Lahore Circle      4 Divisions / 23 Sub Divisions

4.            Okara Circle        5 Divisions / 23 Sub Divisions

5.            South-Eastern LHR Circle               4 Divisions /26 Sub Divisions

6.            Sheikhupura Circle           4 Divisions / 18 Sub Divisions

7.            Kasur Circle         5 Divisions / 30 Sub Divisions

8.            Nankana Circle  4 Divisions / 16 Sub Divisions

Project Construction Circle           6 Divisions

G.S.O. Circle       3 Divisions