The National Assembly’s Standing Committee on Industries and Production has taken up complaints over delayed Proton car deliveries while also voicing strong concern over rising corruption at Pakistan Steel Mills.
During its meeting, the committee discussed the long-standing issue of Proton cars that remain undelivered. Members noted that 488 customers booked Proton vehicles and paid advances ranging between 70 and 80 lac rupees. The company had committed to deliver the cars within two months. However, more than one year has passed, and customers have received neither their vehicles nor their money back.
Given the prolonged delay, the committee decided to summon the owner of the Proton Company to the next meeting. It will also call representatives from the Bestway Group, which is expected to merge with Proton Company, along with officials from the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan. The committee said it wants clear explanations on delivery delays, customer payments, and plans.
After discussing the Proton issue, the committee turned its attention to Pakistan Steel Mills. Members raised alarm over growing corruption, calling it a serious governance failure with high financial costs. They said the continued theft of iron ore, copper, and scrap points to weak oversight by senior management and has further harmed the struggling state-owned entity.
As a result, the committee asked the Federal Investigation Agency and Sindh Police to submit a detailed report at the earliest. Lawmakers also highlighted civic issues within the Pakistan Steel Mills area, including problems in schools and hospitals. They further pointed to the ongoing lack of water and electricity for residents.
In response, the committee formed a subcommittee under the leadership of Ms. Naz Baloch, MNA. The panel will examine these issues and submit its report to the standing committee.
Several MNAs attended the meeting, including Mr. Shahid Usman, Ms. Kiran Imran Dar, Ms. Romina Khurshid Alam, Dr. Mahesh Kumar Malani, Mr. Abdul Hakeem Baloch, Ms. Naz Baloch, and Dr. Mahreen Razzaq Bhutto. The Secretary of the Ministry of Industries and Production and other senior officials were also present.