Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has ordered an investigation into allegations of irregularities in Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited (SNGPL) tenders after a complaint was submitted by Transparency International Pakistan regarding possible violations of PPRA rules.

According to a statement issued by the Prime Minister’s Office, the matter came under notice following concerns raised over the procurement process and alleged non-compliance with Public Procurement Regulatory Authority regulations in the awarding of contracts.

The prime minister directed the relevant authorities to conduct a detailed inquiry into the complaint and examine all aspects of the tendering process. He instructed that the investigation be carried out on merit and without delay.

The statement further said that PM Shehbaz has made it clear that if the allegations are substantiated during the probe, strict action should be taken against those found responsible.

The complaint has added fresh attention to procurement practices within state-owned entities, with SNGPL now facing scrutiny over whether proper procedures were followed in the tender awards.

SNGPL, one of Pakistan’s key gas distribution companies, has previously faced questions related to procurement governance, although no conclusions have been drawn in the current case. The outcome of the investigation will determine whether any rules were violated and what action, if any, will follow.