Amid Pakistan’s fiscal tightening, the Sindh government plans to spend Rs2 billion on 138 luxury 4×4 vehicles for assistant commissioners (ACs).
Each Toyota Hilux Revo pickup, priced at over Rs10 million, will be procured through a centralized mechanism for the fiscal year 2024-25.
This decision contrasts with federal austerity measures, including directives from Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif for ministers and advisers to use economy class and forgo luxury vehicles. The Sindh Services, General Administration & Coordination Department has requested Rs1.99 billion from the Finance Department for this purchase.
Economists criticize the move, recommending a ban on luxury items for government officials.
Meanwhile, the federal government, under Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, is focused on economic reforms and awaits IMF approval for a $7 billion Extended Fund Facility (EFF).