IN a debt-ridden country with more than half of the population living below the poverty line, to possess a government vehicle is a luxury only few can enjoy. Having a green vehicle number plate is considered by many to be a ‘status symbol’ and a privilege, which, perhaps, it is.

The problem is that most of the people who get this ‘privilege’ happen to own their own cars as well, and most of them let the government vehicles gather rust and dust outside their bungalows. This is unethical and unprofessional behaviour and a massive waste of government resources.

A careful examination of budget books of the federal/provincial governments suggests millions of rupees are marked under the head of purchasing new vehicles. This drains the federal/provincial resources on non-essential expenditure.

The relevant departments must introduce monthly or quarterly inspection of all government vehicles, and should penalise those who fail to take due care of such vehicles. This will be a fair deal.

Syed Zakir Ali Shah
Karachi

Published in Dawn, January 3rd, 2022