The Punjab government has approved the procurement of new vehicles for VIP use, with the purchase expected to cost Rs. 523.5 million.
Documents cited by 24News show the provincial government has cleared the purchase of 20 Toyota Fortuners and 12 Toyota Hilux vehicles. The Fortuners are to be bought for Rs. 372.7 million, while the Hilux fleet will cost Rs112.6 million.
The paperwork also indicates that additional funds have been set aside to equip the vehicles with special security features. The proposed upgrades include night-vision capability, thermal cameras, and other modern surveillance and protection equipment.
The move reportedly went ahead despite reservations from the finance department, which objected to the inclusion of Toyota Fortuners on the grounds that they fall into the luxury category.
However, the report said Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz approved the plan after accepting recommendations put forward by the transport wing, effectively clearing the way for the purchase and the accompanying security enhancements.
Source: 24News