Balochistan Assembly’s Local Government Committee Reviews Fund Allocation and Development Plans

Quetta: The Balochistan Provincial Assembly’s Standing Committee on Local Government convened under the chairmanship of Dr. Ashok Kumar. The meeting commenced with the recitation of the Holy Quran and was attended by committee members, Parliamentary Secretary for Local Government Abdul Majeed, committee member Ms. Safia, and Local Government Secretary Abdul Rauf Baloch.

Briefing on Local Government Performance and Fund Allocation

During the session, Secretary Abdul Rauf Baloch provided a comprehensive briefing on the performance of the Local Government Department and the distribution of funds across various districts for the fiscal year 2024-25.

Emphasizing transparency in fund utilization, Chairman Dr. Ashok Kumar highlighted concerns over financial irregularities in local government spending. He stressed the importance of strict monitoring to ensure that allocated funds are used efficiently. In response, the Local Government Secretary assured that all expenditures would be closely supervised.

Inquiry into Jafarabad Development Projects

The committee decided to conduct an inquiry within a week regarding the allocation and utilization of local government funds in Jafarabad, ensuring accountability in development projects.

Parliamentary Secretary Abdul Majeed raised concerns over the allotment of 72 acres of government land in Jafarabad and reports of illegal occupation in some areas. He urged authorities to retrieve complete land records to establish transparency and reveal the actual ownership status.

Review of GST Revenue and Departmental Assets

Chairman Dr. Ashok Kumar directed officials to obtain details of GST revenue allocated to Balochistan by the federal government. Additionally, he instructed the department to submit a full record of vehicles and machinery used by the Local Government Department.

Municipal Grant for Hub and Slaughterhouse Inspections

The committee was informed that the Municipal Committee Hub had already received a grant of PKR 160 million for the fiscal year 2024-25, with the tendering process completed.

Furthermore, the chairman emphasized the need to activate slaughterhouses in Quetta and other districts, ensuring they comply with health and sanitation standards. Regular inspections will be conducted to maintain hygiene and safety.

Conclusion of the Meeting

In his closing remarks, Chairman Dr. Ashok Kumar expressed gratitude to all participants for their contributions, and the meeting was officially adjourned.

Published in The Gwadar Post, 26 Feb 2025.