By Asim Shahzad
LAHORE: The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) of the Punjab Assembly met on Tuesday under the chairmanship of Chaudhry Iftikhar Hussain Chhichhar, MPA, with committee members and officials from concerned administrative departments, including the Audit and Finance Department, in attendance.
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The committee conducted a detailed review of multiple audit cases pertaining to the Punjab Buildings Department and the Punjab Highways Department. The cases involved serious irregularities, including overpayments, unauthorized and illegal contracts, non-recovery of government dues, illegal financial benefits to contractors, losses in toll tax collection, and the use of substandard materials. The financial impact of these issues amounted to billions of rupees.
The PAC approved the disposal of audit cases in line with recommendations of the Audit and Finance Department. It directed that recoveries and implementation be completed within 30 days, while cases requiring the Finance Department’s opinion be resolved within six days through written reports.
Chairman Chhichhar appreciated the timely recoveries and performance of the Punjab Buildings Department. However, he expressed serious concern over the absence of the chairman of the Planning and Development Department and warned of strict action if there is non-participation in the next meeting.
