The Punjab government’s austerity campaign is facing growing public scrutiny as questions emerge over continued heavy spending on official vehicles despite announced budget-cutting measures.
Although the provincial administration had introduced a series of austerity policies — including a 50% reduction in fuel expenses, restrictions on non-essential vehicle use, and a freeze on new purchases — citizens and analysts say little visible change has appeared on the ground.
Thousands of official vehicles belonging to various government departments, including police, health, education, district administrations, and provincial offices, continue to operate across Punjab. Green-number-plate vehicles are still commonly seen on roads, outside offices, and at official events, prompting criticism over the effectiveness of the cost-cutting drive.
Financial estimates suggest the province spends between Rs20 billion and Rs30 billion annually on fuel, maintenance, drivers, tyres, and overall upkeep of the government fleet. Authorities had projected that austerity measures could save up to Rs10 billion each year, but consolidated data on actual savings has yet to be publicly released.
Experts argue that the issue reflects a deeper culture of official privilege within the bureaucracy. Former officials and economists have called for structural reforms, including GPS tracking systems, digital vehicle logbooks, fuel monitoring, and stronger accountability mechanisms to ensure proper enforcement.
Economic analysts believe major savings could be achieved through shared transport systems, reduced official travel, and increased reliance on virtual meetings rather than maintaining large vehicle fleets across departments.
The government has reportedly halted plans to purchase hundreds of new vehicles and directed departments to pool nearly half of existing transport resources. However, details regarding implementation and enforcement remain unclear.
Operational departments such as police, engineering, and district administration continue to use large numbers of vehicles due to field responsibilities, limiting the visible impact of austerity measures.
Under Punjab’s Motor Transport Policy 2026, senior officials remain entitled to multiple vehicles and monthly fuel allowances, with top bureaucrats permitted up to three official vehicles.
