Senate panel raps NHA for ignoring directives on CAREC project

ISLAMABAD: The Senate Sub-Committee on Communications expressed concern over the failure of relevant departments to present previous recommendations, with particular focus on the Tranche-III (Rajanpur-DG Khan-DI Khan) section of the Central Asia Regional Economic Cooperation (CAREC) project.

It was observed that despite repeated directives, essential records—such as bidding documents and financial credibility reports of participating firms—had not been submitted for review. The committee observed that incomplete and delayed submissions not only hinder transparency but also raise concerns about oversight and accountability.

Presided over by Senator Kamil Ali Agha, the sub-committee reviewed follow-up actions on earlier recommendations, particularly regarding the CAREC Tranche-III project. Expressing displeasure over the absence of the communications secretary and the CEO of NHA, the committee directed them to submit a follow-up report at the next meeting, scheduled for September 15, 2025.

The issue of a non-performing contractor allegedly being awarded work through arbitration, despite prior disqualification, was also discussed at length. Members stressed the need for due diligence in such cases and recommended a thorough inquiry, including scrutiny of financial trails and procurement processes.

The committee underscored that persistent delays and incomplete briefs could not be justified on grounds of resource constraints or administrative absence. It also deliberated upon the role of the Public Procurement Regulatory Authority (PPRA) in relation to the project.

It was informed that while PPRA had conducted hearings on received complaints, the authority faced non-cooperation from the NHA in providing the required documentation. Discrepancies between reported figures and actual disbursements were also highlighted, raising further concerns about transparency and fiscal responsibility.

The committee emphasised that concluding the report without hearing the communications secretary and the NHA CEO would go against the norms of justice. Therefore, it decided to give them another opportunity to appear and clarify their positions.

It was agreed that the NHA CEO would present formal recommendations at the next meeting, after which a detailed report would be finalised. This report will serve as the basis for further parliamentary action and possible referral to relevant accountability institutions, in accordance with the law.

The committee resolved to continue its oversight until a conclusive and lawful outcome is achieved.