RAWALPINDI:
The Punjab government has ordered all public sector bodies to eliminate non-essential expenditure and transfer excess financial deposits to the provincial treasury, citing increased social spending, public assistance measures and shortfall in revenue targets.
Under the directive, development authorities, parks and horticulture authorities (PHAs), water and sanitation agencies (WASAs), waste management companies and other public entities in the province have been directed to retain funds only for salaries, pensions, utilities and critical emergency operations, and remit the remaining balances to the government.
Authorities have also been asked to submit repayment schedules for outstanding debts.
The decision was taken at a meeting held in Lahore under the chairmanship of Punjab Chief Secretary Zahid Zaman Akhtar, which was attended by heads and representatives of development authorities and state-owned enterprises from across the province.
Participants presented their financial situation, including essential expenses, current and future development projects, as well as details of funds held in bank accounts.
