Officials seek verification of flying hours, market rates and tax liabilities before clearing payment for emergency services
LAHORE: The Punjab Finance Department has raised serious objections over a Rs160.3 million bill for helicopter services hired during flood rescue and relief operations, questioning delayed payment procedures and the absence of independent verification.
Official documents show that the provincial government hired helicopter services from M/s Askari Aviation (Private) Limited for 17 days between August 28 and September 13, 2025, during emergency flood operations across Punjab.
However, the Finance Department questioned why officials initiated the payment and regularisation process eight months after receiving the services. It noted that the available record provided no clear explanation for the unusual delay.
Flying Records and Rates Face Scrutiny
Furthermore, the department raised concerns about verification of the helicopter’s flying logs. Officials said the record contained no independent confirmation of the actual flying hours for which the company submitted its bill.
The department also questioned whether the rates charged by the private aviation company reflected prevailing market prices, noting that officials had submitted no independent assessment to establish their reasonableness.
Additionally, the Finance Department flagged possible tax liabilities that authorities had not adequately considered while processing the payment.
The Punjab Procurement Regulatory Authority said direct contracting remains permissible during emergencies. Nevertheless, authorities must identify and comply with the relevant legal provisions while conducting market research before determining rates.
Government Defends Emergency Hiring
Meanwhile, documents show the Finance Department had already released Rs72.23 billion for flood rescue, relief and rehabilitation operations.
Punjab’s chief secretary maintained that authorities hired the helicopter under emergency circumstances and said the provincial government remains responsible for paying for the services.
The Finance Department will now examine the delayed regularisation, independently verify flight records, assess market rates and determine applicable taxes before approving the Rs160.3 million payment.
The scrutiny has renewed questions about transparency and financial controls governing emergency procurement during major disasters.
