Irregularities have been uncovered in the procurement of hepatitis diagnostic kits in Punjab, causing a heavy loss of Rs75.8 million to the public exchequer due to the purchase of expensive kits.
Shocking revelations have emerged in the Auditor General of Pakistan’s report for 2024 to 2025. According to the report, the DG Health Office estimated the cost of kit procurement at Rs220 million, while the Health Department’s estimate was 44 percent higher than the price quoted by the firm. In response to the advertisement, four companies submitted bids, but only one firm was declared qualified.
According to the report, declaring only one company eligible eliminated the competitive environment. Lady Willingdon Hospital purchased the same kits at a price 39 percent lower. The kits were purchased in 2023, and strict action has been recommended against officers who violated the rules.
The report stated that the prices were higher than the rates fixed under the federal government’s Drug Act, constituting a violation of the Act. The loss occurred due to weak oversight and financial control negligence by the Punjab Health Department. An inquiry was ordered on September 19, 2024, but the Health Department has so far failed to submit any report.
