The Sub-Committee of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) on Wednesday addressed several financial irregularities within the Ministry of Housing and Works, including the unauthorized use of official vehicles, failure to recover outstanding rent from government lodges, and the non-recovery of Rs17 million in ground rent from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).
The issues were discussed during a review of audit objections for the period 2011-12 to 2022-23, chaired by Convener Moin Aamir Pirzada. Regarding suspicious petrol expenditure, the committee directed officials to provide verified records to audit authorities.
The committee also examined the vehicle monetization of an executive engineer from the former Public Works Department (PWD); the Secretary of Housing and Works confirmed the officer had retired, leading to the settlement of the objection. Expressing concern over the slow recovery of rent from government lodges - noting only Rs2.2 million recovered over a decade - the convener demanded strict accountability.
Officials stated that regulations have since been tightened to prevent future lapses. Furthermore, the illegal purchase of a bulletproof vehicle for a minister was discussed.
Upon learning the vehicle was returned to the Cabinet Division, the committee settled the objection with a formal warning. The committee emphasized that financial discipline is paramount for government departments.
Members noted that the lack of oversight in previous years had led to significant losses to the national exchequer. The convener directed the ministry to submit a comprehensive report on all pending recoveries within 15 days.
He warned that any further negligence would result in strict departmental action against the responsible officers. The audit officials were also instructed to maintain a closer watch on the ministry's expenditures.
The PAC sub-committee reiterated its commitment to transparency and the protection of public funds. The meeting concluded with a directive to ensure that all future procurements strictly adhere to the Public Procurement Regulatory Authority (PPRA) rules.
The ministry officials assured the committee of full compliance. This session marks a significant step in the ongoing efforts by the PAC to ensure fiscal responsibility across federal ministries, ensuring that public resources are utilized efficiently and legally.