An inquiry has been launched into alleged Rs3 billion in financial irregularities within the Sindh Solar Energy Project, prompting a provincial assembly committee to demand a complete record of the scheme amidst serious corruption allegations.
According to a report on Monday, the Sindh Assembly’s Standing Committee on Energy has officially sought comprehensive details from the provincial Energy Department concerning the solar initiative.
Rehan Bandukda, the committee”s chairman and a Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) MPA, has formally written to the committee”s secretary to obtain all project-related documentation from the Secretary of the Energy Department ahead of a critical meeting.
According to the letter, the standing committee will convene to deliberate on grave concerns raised about the project, including accusations of financial impropriety, non-transparent procurement practices, and questionable import procedures.
Mr Bandukda noted that findings previously highlighted in Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) reports had already pointed towards irregularities in the import, valuation, and procurement of solar kits under the programme. He added that similar concerns had been discussed at the Senate Standing Committee level.
The committee’s request specifically seeks records related to suspected under-invoicing, the incorrect valuation of imported solar equipment, and discrepancies in customs declarations and clearance processes.
Furthermore, the panel has called for complete documentation of the tendering and bidding process, along with procurement approvals, contracts, and details of all suppliers involved in the project.
The Energy Department has also been directed to furnish a full account of the project’s approved budget, expenditure statements, invoices, bills, vouchers, payment receipts, and contracts. Customs clearance records for the imported solar kits, including valuation specifics and the names of clearing officers, have also been sought.
A comprehensive list of all officials involved in the planning, approval, procurement, import, and implementation phases has been demanded, along with their respective roles and authorisations. The committee has also requested copies of any internal or external audit reports that may have been conducted.
Emphasising the necessity of parliamentary oversight, Mr Bandukda stated that all required records must be submitted well before the meeting to ensure transparency, accountability, and to identify those responsible for any potential loss to the provincial and national exchequer.