The Punjab government has directed all public-sector bodies to eliminate non-essential expenditure and transfer surplus financial deposits to the provincial exchequer, citing rising welfare spending, public relief measures, and a shortfall in revenue targets.

Under the directive, development authorities, Parks and Horticulture Authorities (PHA), Water and Sanitation Agencies (WASA), waste management companies and other public entities across the province have been instructed to retain funds only for salaries, pensions, utility services and critical emergency operations, and to remit remaining balances to the government.

Authorities have also been asked to submit schedules for the repayment of outstanding liabilities.

The decision was taken at a meeting held in Lahore under the chairmanship of Punjab Chief Secretary Zahid Zaman Akhtar, attended by heads and representatives of development authorities and public companies from across the province.

Participants presented their financial positions, including essential expenditures, ongoing and future development projects, and details of funds held in bank accounts.