Wheels of misuse

Letter December 15, 2024
Wheels of misuse

In Pakistan, government employees are often the envy of their private-sector counterparts. With better facilities and respect, it’s no wonder many people aspire to join the government workforce. One of the perks of being a government employee in Pakistan is the provision of official vehicles, especially for those in higher grade scales. These vehicles are meant to facilitate employees in performing their duties, particularly those who need to travel long distances.
However, the misuse of these government vehicles has become a rampant issue. It’s not uncommon to see minors driving these vehicles, recognisable by their green number plates. Moreover, new drivers often use these vehicles to practise driving. But that’s not all — some drivers even use these vehicles for personal errands, such as grocery shopping. The most egregious examples are when government vehicles are used for leisure activities, like taking the papa ki beti shopping. It’s shocking that such blatant misuse goes unchecked, with no accountability from higher authorities.
The question remains: how long will this unchecked practice continue? Why aren’t stricter measures being taken to prevent the misuse of government vehicles?
The misuse of government vehicles is a serious issue that needs to be addressed. It’s essential to implement strict policies and regulations, conduct regular audits and inspections, and hold government employees accountable for their actions. By doing so, we can ensure that government vehicles are used efficiently and effectively, and that national resources are not wasted.
Riaz Ali Panhwar
Hyderabad