LAHORE: In a bid to maximise revenue generation and streamline administrative operations, the Punjab government has decided to outsource the collection of shop signboard fees within the Punjab Horticulture Authority’s (PHA) jurisdiction to the Punjab Excise Department.
The decision was finalised during the second PHA Board meeting, chaired by Punjab Housing and Urban Development Minister Bilal Yasin, who also announced a phased digitalisation roadmap in collaboration with the Punjab Information Technology Board (PITB) to phase out administrative burdens and enhance fiscal transparency. Initial approval was also granted in the meeting for operational vehicles for newly established horticulture agencies.
On this occasion, the Minister stated that the decision was taken to improve fee collection rates, ensure transparency, and reduce the administrative burden. He added that increased revenue generation by horticulture agencies would lessen the burden on the government treasury and enhance administrative efficiency.
“Moreover, a comprehensive dashboard will be developed to improve departmental performance, transparency, record management, monitoring, and public service delivery. The administrative, financial, and operational affairs of horticulture agencies will be digitalised through modern IT systems,” he said.
The Board also approved the delegation of powers for transfers and postings of officers in Grade 15 and above within the Authority and its agencies to the Director General. Similarly, powers for transfers and postings of employees in Grades 7 to 14 were delegated to the Additional Director Generals, while powers for employees in Grades 1 to 6 were delegated to the Director Administration and Finance.
PHA Director General Raja Mansoor Ahmad informed the meeting that the Punjab Excise Department would receive a specified payment from the pool of collected fees to cover its administrative expenses. He further stated that all available resources are being utilised to modernise PHAs and bring them in line with contemporary standards.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2026
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