LAHORE: The Punjab government has approved the purchase of 10 vehicles for judges of the superior courts, significantly reducing an earlier proposal that called for 108 vehicles.
The decision comes as part of broader austerity measures being implemented across the province. The approval was granted during a cabinet meeting chaired by Maryam Nawaz. The session was held virtually, with ministers and officials joining remotely in line with cost-cutting efforts.
Initially, the cabinet committee and the Services and General Administration Department’s transport wing had recommended acquiring over 100 luxury vehicles for government officials and cabinet members, with an estimated cost of Rs1.14 billion for the current fiscal year.
However, the cabinet chose to scale down the plan, limiting the purchase strictly to 10 vehicles intended for the higher judiciary.
Alongside this decision, the provincial leadership announced financial contributions toward austerity efforts.
Cabinet members, special assistants, and parliamentary secretaries will donate salaries equivalent to two months to the prime minister’s austerity fund. Members of the Punjab Assembly will also take part by contributing two months’ pay and 25% of their allowances.
These steps are part of a wider initiative aimed at promoting fiscal discipline and reducing unnecessary public spending. The government emphasized that the limited vehicle procurement reflects a more focused approach, ensuring essential requirements are met without excessive expenditure.
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz highlighted that these measures align with federal austerity goals and demonstrate a commitment to responsible use of public funds.
