POLITICS & POLICY MAKING
The Punjab government has decided to allocate a significant budget for the procurement of luxury vehicles for parliamentary secretaries and high-ranking officials. Sources reveal that a total of 76 luxury vehicles will be purchased at an estimated cost of Rs 61.24 crore.
According to insider reports, 29 luxury vehicles worth Rs 22 crore are specifically set aside for parliamentary secretaries. Additionally, 15 luxury vehicles, costing Rs 9.96 crore, will be procured for the Services and General Administration Department (S&GAD).
The decision was made following a request from the Additional Chief Secretary of Punjab, who emphasized the need for 76 new vehicles to support various government protocols and ministerial activities. Sources also stated that two vehicles, valued at Rs 3.61 crore, will be reserved for S&GAD protocol, while 30 vehicles, worth Rs 20.90 crore, will be dedicated to provincial ministers' protocol duties.
This move is likely to raise eyebrows, as critics may question the timing and necessity of such a large expenditure, especially given the ongoing economic challenges faced by the region. The procurement of luxury vehicles for government officials is often a sensitive subject, with concerns about government spending versus public needs.
As the plan unfolds, further details on the allocation of the vehicles and the overall impact on government resources are expected to be shared with the public.