PAC to meet over unspent compensation funds

DC to submit reports on reasons for delays in disbursement

QUETTA:

The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) of Balochistan, chaired by Asghar Ali Tareen, has convened a critical meeting on November 14, 2024, to address Rs19 billion in unspent compensation funds lying idle in various deputy commissioners' (DCs) accounts.

These funds, originally earmarked for compensating residents affected by road-cutting projects across the province, have reportedly remained unutilized for an extended period.

During a meeting held at the Balochistan Provincial Assembly on Thursday, PAC members, including Ali Riki, Fazal Qadir Mandukhel, Senior Member Board of Revenue (SMBR) Qamber Dashti, Director General Audit Shuja Ali, and Additional Secretary PAC Siraj Lahri, reviewed the 2022-23 audit findings. The audit revealed that funds designated for compensation payments have been stagnant in the accounts of 10 Deputy Commissioners, raising concerns over delayed distribution to eligible residents.

The PAC urged all concerned DCs to submit reports explaining the reasons for the prolonged delay in disbursing these funds to the affected communities. Senior Member Board of Revenue Qamber Dashti emphasized the need for accountability, highlighting that these funds were intended to support residents impacted by essential infrastructure projects.

By ensuring the proper distribution of these funds, the PAC aims to promote transparency and expedite financial relief for affected residents, fostering a more efficient and people-centered approach to project management in Balochistan.