Why Are Solar Panels Being Stolen from Punjab's Government Schools?
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Synopsis
In a troubling trend, solar panels are being stolen from government schools in Punjab, Pakistan. The Punjab Public Accounts Committee has called for an investigation into the alarming thefts, highlighting the lack of accountability within the Education Department. This ongoing issue raises concerns about the safety and security of school assets.
Key Takeaways
- Widespread theft of solar panels from government schools in Punjab is alarming.
- The Punjab Public Accounts Committee is demanding accountability.
- Investigations have been launched to uncover the extent of the thefts.
- Privatization of schools has resulted in increased vulnerability to theft.
- Staff members are urged to return any stolen property voluntarily.
Islamabad, Sep 8 (NationPress) Reports indicate that solar panels from government schools are persistently being stolen in Punjab province, Pakistan. Following allegations of extensive thefts, the Punjab Public Accounts Committee (PAC) has urged local police to investigate the situation.
The report highlights that in Rajanpur alone, solar panels from 50 schools were pilfered between 2022 and 2023. Expressing grave concern, the PAC stated that District Police Officers (DPOs) from the affected areas would receive stringent letters regarding their failure to prevent these thefts, as reported by ARY News.
Committee member Malik criticized the Education Department for its refusal to accept accountability, instead attributing the issue to the District Health Authority. The PAC has instructed a thorough investigation to assess the number of affected schools and the level of recovery achieved, if any.
In its defense, the Education Department acknowledged that FIRs have been lodged concerning the thefts, yet no recovery has occurred thus far. They admitted that the District Education Authority failed to protect the solar panels.
According to The Express Tribune, over 10,000 public schools were privatized by the Punjab School Education Department within six months, with reports indicating rampant theft at many of these institutions. The stolen items included furniture, chairs, fans, and solar panels.
Grade-IV employees are being held responsible for these thefts while inquiries are being conducted against unidentified individuals. Schools in remote rural areas have suffered significant losses, as noted by departmental sources. Officials claimed that some staff members appropriated these items for personal use and are currently under close surveillance, as reported by The Express Tribune.
The department has cautioned staff members of potential disciplinary actions and has urged them to voluntarily return any pilfered items. The Punjab School Education Department has privatized 4,789 public schools in the second phase of their privatization initiative in March, reducing the total number of public schools in Punjab to 38,154.
Point of View
It is imperative to highlight the ongoing crisis surrounding the theft of solar panels in Punjab. This alarming trend emphasizes the need for accountability among local authorities and the protection of educational resources. Schools are vital for our future, and safeguarding their assets should be a top priority.
NationPress
08/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is causing the theft of solar panels in Punjab's government schools?
The thefts appear to stem from systemic issues within the District Education Authority, which has been unable to secure school assets effectively.
What actions has the Punjab Public Accounts Committee taken?
The PAC has requested an investigation by local police into the widespread thefts and has expressed concern over the lack of accountability from District Police Officers.
How many schools have reported thefts?
Reports indicate that approximately 50 schools in Rajanpur alone experienced solar panel thefts between 2022 and 2023.
What items have been stolen besides solar panels?
Other stolen items include furniture, chairs, and fans from various public schools across Punjab.
What steps is the Education Department taking in response to the thefts?
The Education Department has filed FIRs regarding the thefts but has admitted that no recovery has been made so far.
