The Punjab government has announced plans to purchase 79 luxury vehicles for ministers, parliamentary secretaries, and security escorts. This initiative, costing Rs. 612.475 million, is aimed at strengthening the Services and General Administration Department (S&GAD) transport pool.
The government’s Standing Committee on Finance & Development was briefed by the additional chief secretary (ACS) about the necessity of these vehicles. It was explained that 29 parliamentary secretaries had been appointed, and 20 had already been provided with official cars.
The remaining nine will soon receive vehicles, with more reserved for potential future appointments.
Furthermore, 30 Toyota Hilux vehicles will be purchased to provide security escorts for provincial ministers, considering the current law and order situation.
In addition, the government is preparing for the upcoming Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit in October. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has requested 15 luxury and bulletproof vehicles to accommodate visiting dignitaries.
The ACS informed the committee that two Toyota Fortuner and 15 Toyota Corolla Altis vehicles are needed to ensure smooth protocol duties during the event. This purchase is expected to support the province’s operational needs and provide better protocol services for upcoming high-profile events.