QUETTA: Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti on Wednesday ordered the provincial finance department to increase 100 per cent development funds of local bodies’ institutions and evolve an effective mechanism for proper utilisation of these funds and keep a vigilant eye on corruption.

He issued the directive during a meeting with chairmen of district councils and mayors of municipal committees here on Wednesday The chief minister said the release of funds would be subject to performance of LB institutions.

The financial issues facing local bodies in Balochistan were discussed in detail during the meeting. The chief minister ordered the finance department to release funds to local bodies with 100 per cent increase immediately.

Mr Bugti urged the chairmen and mayors to play their role in preventing corruption, improving sanitation system and monitoring attendance of staff in schools and hospitals of the province.

“Proper use of resources should be ensured and mechanisms should be prepared in collaboration with anti-corruption establishment for elimination of corruption from society,” the chief minister said.

He directed heads of local bodies’ institutions to inspect schools and hospitals at the local level and report to the Chief Minister Secretariat about the absent staff.

“The development projects initiated by local councils must be visible on the ground and these projects should be carried out by keeping in view the needs of the people,” the chief minister said.

Published in Dawn, October 24th, 2024