LAHORE: Contrary to its claims of austerity, cost-cutting, and prudent use of public resources, the Punjab government has approved the purchase of new vehicles and security equipment worth over Rs 523.5 million for VIPs and VVIPs under the pretext of security and protocol.
According to sources, even within official circles, questions have been raised about the necessity of this expenditure. Documents reveal that under this plan, Rs 372.7 million will be spent on 20 Toyota Fortuner Sigma 4×4 vehicles and Rs 112.6 million on 12 Toyota Hilux 4×4 vehicles.
Additional funds have been allocated for advanced security features such as night vision, thermal cameras, bar lights, and other equipment.
Sources indicate that the Punjab Finance Department had objected to the purchase of the Toyota Fortuners, labeling them as luxury vehicles and stating that buying such expensive vehicles could constitute unnecessary use of public funds.
However, these objections were ignored, and the Chief Minister of Punjab gave final approval following recommendations from the Motor Transport Wing and the Services and General Administration Department (S&GAD).
The procurement and deployment of these vehicles will now be managed through the same government wing.
