Staff Reporter:
QUETTA: The Public Accounts Committee (PAC), led by Chairman Asghar Ali Tareen, raised concerns over delays and budget overruns in Balochistan’s Irrigation Department projects during a review of audit reports for 2021-22, 2022-23, and accounts from 2016-2019. PAC highlighted inefficiencies leading to billions in excess costs and unfinished projects, with Tareen questioning, “Who will cover these losses?”
The committee specifically criticized the department’s delay in removing bushes and canal construction in Hub, pointing out that a necessary letter to the P&D Department was only issued days before the PAC meeting, despite being agreed upon two years ago by the Departmental Accounts Committee (DAC).
Fazal Qadir Mandukhel demanded immediate recovery from contractors for using inferior materials on a dam project, warning of strict action if funds aren’t recovered within a month. Echoing these concerns, PAC member Zabad Ali Riki called the misuse of public funds “a crime that must be addressed.”
The meeting was attended by PAC members Zabad Ali Riki and Fazal Qadir Mandukhel, DG Audit Shuja Ali, AG Balochistan Nasrullah Jan, and other senior officials.
