The National Assembly’s Standing Committee on Housing and Works postponed its meeting on November 2 after the federal minister, secretary and senior officials failed to attend, raising concerns over accountability and parliamentary oversight.
The committee, chaired by Maulana Abdul Ghafoor Haideri, expressed dissatisfaction with the absence of officials responsible for briefing lawmakers.
Committee demands complete reports
According to an official National Assembly statement, the committee also criticised the ministry for failing to submit required compliance reports and providing incomplete information.
Members directed the Ministry of Housing and Works and its attached departments to submit outstanding reports, updates on previous recommendations and complete agenda-wise briefings before the next meeting.
The committee stressed that timely information and better coordination were necessary for effective parliamentary scrutiny of government departments.
Former PWD employees raise concerns
The committee also discussed the future of former Public Works Department (PWD) employees placed in the government’s surplus pool.
It recommended considering these experienced employees for available positions in the Pakistan Infrastructure Development and Asset Management Authority (PIDAMA).
Members argued that retaining experienced staff could help maintain operational continuity and reduce the time required to train new employees.
What happens next?
The ministry has been instructed to provide the outstanding documentation ahead of the committee’s next meeting.
The committee’s decision highlights concerns about government departments’ responsiveness to parliamentary oversight, although no further action against the absent officials was announced.
Source: National Assembly of Pakistan, November 2, 2026.