DERA ISMAIL KHAN, Jan 13 — The Accountant General (AG) Office Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has been accused of withholding cheques worth Rs 3.63 billion that were approved for the purchase of sanitation machinery, vehicles, and loaders for Tehsil Municipal Administrations (TMAs) across the province.
The funds were sanctioned during the tenure of former Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur to strengthen cleanliness and waste management in both urban and rural areas. Despite approval by the provincial cabinet and clearance from the Finance Department, the cheques have reportedly not been issued, raising concerns that the allocation may lapse.
According to official records, the provincial cabinet in April 2025 authorized the purchase of sanitation equipment during its 30th meeting. The Finance Department subsequently completed the required formalities and confirmed the release of funds. However, sources claim the AG Office has maintained a rigid stance, delaying the disbursement.
The delay has disrupted the “Green and Clean Khyber Pakhtunkhwa” initiative, which aims to improve sanitation services across the province. While some funds have been released to Assistant Directors for machinery procurement, TMAs remain deprived of their share, leaving waste disposal operations under strain.
Public and social circles have voiced strong concern, describing the situation as unfair to local administrations. They have appealed to Chief Minister Sohail Afridi, Provincial Minister for Local Government Meena Khan Afridi, and Chief Secretary Syed Shahab Ali Shah to intervene and ensure the immediate release of the approved funds so that sanitation vehicles and equipment can be procured without further delay.
