PAC probe uncovers massive financial irregularities in Balochistan Energy Department

• Committee highlights Rs10bn payments to K-Electric and Rs30bn to QESCO for subsidised tube wells without meter readings

The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) of the Balochistan Assembly has uncovered massive financial irregularities in the Balochistan Energy Department, leading to billions in losses. 

According to an investigation carried out by the PAC, the energy department failed to utilise Rs2.31 billion in allocated funds, paid Rs40 billion in subsidies without proper auditing, and continues to ignore Rs554 billion in unpaid electricity bills owed by landlords and government entities.

The committee, chaired by Asghar Ali Tareen, held a session to scrutinise budget lapses, unverified payments, and unchecked subsidies. 

Members present included Fazal Qadir Mando Khel, Wali Muhammad Noorzai, Rehmat Saleh Baloch, Safia Bibi, Opposition Leader Younus Aziz Zehri, Assembly Secretary Tahir Shah Kakar, DG Audit Shuja Ali, Deputy Accountant General Hafiz Noorul Haq, and PAC Additional Secretary Siraj Lehri.

Audit officials revealed that in FY2021–22, the department received Rs10.4 billion but spent only Rs8 billion, allowing Rs2.31 billion to lapse unused. 

Lawmakers criticised the department for irresponsible budgeting and inefficient fund use. Wali Muhammad Noorzai described wasting 30% of allocated funds as “a serious crime,” while Fazal Qadir Mando Khel warned that responsible officials would be held accountable.

The committee decided to write to the Chief Secretary, instructing that any secretary failing to return more than 5% of unspent funds to the Finance Department promptly will face strict disciplinary action.

PAC members also highlighted irregularities in subsidised tube wells, noting that Rs10 billion was paid to K-Electric and Rs30 billion to QESCO without meter readings, relying solely on estimates. 

Chairman Tareen warned that continued non-compliance could lead to referral to the National Accountability Bureau (NAB). 

The committee was further alarmed that landlords owe QESCO Rs500 billion and government departments Rs54 billion in unpaid electricity bills, yet the Energy Department continues disbursing payments without reconciliation. Despite these arrears, electricity supply outside Quetta is limited to 3–4 hours daily, underscoring severe mismanagement.