The Punjab government has sought an additional Rs 86 crore to meet the increased expenses for official air travel, amid plans to launch the province’s own airline, Air Punjab.
Lahore – The Punjab administration has asked for a supplementary grant of Rs 86 crore to handle higher costs linked to VIP and official air travel. This request comes as the province pushes forward with Air Punjab, its planned regional airline set to start operations on the Lahore-Islamabad route.
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has directed officials to speed up the launch of Air Punjab. Recent meetings focused on leasing modern aircraft to ensure safe and reliable flights for key routes. The initial service will connect Lahore and Islamabad, with emphasis on comfort, punctuality, and adherence to high safety standards.
Officials attribute the cost rise to several factors:
- Sharp increases in global prices for aviation parts and equipment
- Higher fuel charges worldwide
- Growing expenses for aircraft upkeep and operations
The provincial cabinet has already approved the supplementary grant proposal. It stressed the importance of dependable air transport for dignitaries and government work. The Finance Department forwarded the request to the Punjab Assembly, where the budget committee will examine it before final approval.
This funding would go to the Services and General Administration Department for urgent use in maintaining aircraft readiness and safety. The move aligns with broader efforts to upgrade transport in Punjab, including investments in urban buses, transit facilities, and other mobility schemes in recent budgets.
The request has drawn mixed reactions. Some lawmakers and observers question the scale of spending on official travel at a time when many public services struggle for funds. They argue that resources should first address everyday needs like healthcare, education, and basic infrastructure.
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Others defend the allocation, noting that secure and efficient travel supports administrative functions across a large province like Punjab.
The Punjab Assembly is expected to take up the matter in its next session. If cleared, the funds will help cover immediate shortfalls while Air Punjab moves toward its early rollout.
