Airport security deal reports dismissed as exaggerated

Procurement for API, PNR systems to follow transparent bidding under PPRA rules, say sources

ISLAMABAD:

Recent media reports regarding a proposed $2.4 billion airport security investment by an international firm and the award of a Rs20 billion e-gate project without open bidding are exaggerated and misleading, according to informed sources.

These sources said that the deployment of advanced airport security systems, including Advanced Passenger Information (API) and Passenger Name Record (PNR), is being pursued in line with established procurement procedures. The process is being conducted in full compliance with the Public Procurement Regulatory Authority (PPRA) rules, the sources added.

Sources further stated that any contract for a project of such national importance would be awarded through an open and competitive bidding process, ensuring transparency and merit-based selection. They added that key considerations would include cost-effectiveness, technical capability, and adherence to national data protection laws.

Sources underscored that safeguarding sensitive passenger data remains the government's top priority. Any system implemented must ensure that all data generated at Pakistan's airports remains under the complete ownership, control, and legal jurisdiction of the government of Pakistan, the sources said, describing this requirement as non-negotiable. The widely reported $2.4 billion figure associated with the proposal may be significantly overstated, the sources further said, adding that the actual cost of such systems could only be determined following a transparent bidding process involving multiple competitors. They cautioned against portraying any single proposal as finalised or preferred.

They also expressed concern over what they described as a coordinated misinformation campaign driven by vested interests, aimed at projecting a particular proposal as highly favourable or internationally endorsed. Such efforts, they warned, could undermine public trust and distort facts surrounding government processes.

Referring to past controversies in similar technology procurements, the sources stressed the need for thorough scrutiny and due diligence. They reiterated the government's commitment to transparency, accountability, and strict adherence to procurement laws. While acknowledging the importance of international cooperation, the sources maintained that all decisions regarding national infrastructure projects would be made in accordance with Pakistan's institutional procedures and strategic priorities.