The Punjab government has approved the purchase of 42 new vehicles for VIP use and security at a total cost of Rs 523.5 million. The decision came during a cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif on Monday, even as the province talks about austerity steps.
Lahore: The Punjab cabinet has given the go-ahead for buying 42 vehicles meant for VIPs and their security teams. The total bill stands at about Rs 523.5 million.
According to details, the plan includes 20 Toyota Fortuner vehicles costing Rs 372.7 million. Another 12 high-spec vehicles, including Hilux models, will be bought for VIP security and protocol duties at Rs 112.6 million. These will come with special equipment such as night vision and thermal cameras.
Sources say the Finance Department had raised concerns about the Fortuners, calling them luxury items that did not fit with cost-cutting goals. However, the cabinet and the Chief Minister overruled the objection and cleared the purchase.
The cabinet also approved 10 new official vehicles for the higher judiciary.
The government says the new vehicles will help improve security arrangements and protocol for important officials across Punjab. No immediate comment was available from the provincial spokesperson when this report was filed.
Breakdown of Approved Vehicles
- 20 Toyota Fortuner vehicles – Rs 372.7 million
- 12 high-spec security vehicles (including Hilux) – Rs 112.6 million
- 10 vehicles for superior judiciary – cost not specified separately
This purchase forms part of the ongoing effort to update the official fleet. It comes at a time when the Punjab government has been discussing ways to control spending in other areas.
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Many people expect questions about the timing and cost, given repeated public calls for careful use of public money. The exact delivery timeline and suppliers have not been shared yet.
