The Interior Ministry announced on Thursday that over Rs 927 million has been spent on renovating the Parliament House over the past five years. In a detailed written statement to the National Assembly, the ministry outlined the annual expenditures: Rs 108 million in 2019-20, Rs 171 million in 2020-21, Rs 286 million in 2021-22, Rs 302 million in 2022-23, and Rs 60 million in 2023-24.
Additionally, it was reported in 2022 that an extra Rs 5 billion would be allocated to the Parliament House for the fiscal year 2022-23. This substantial funding was earmarked to cover various expenses, including salaries, allowances, and other operational costs, reflecting an increase compared to previous years.
The Parliament, consisting of the Upper House (Senate) and the Lower House (National Assembly), received these additional funds to ensure the smooth functioning and upkeep of the legislative body. The increased budget highlights the government’s commitment to maintaining the Parliament House and supporting its operational needs.
In an effort to better reflect the cultural heritage and national values, Senate Chairman Sadiq Sanjrani formed a parliamentary committee last year. This committee was tasked with renaming the Parliament House to symbolize national unity and pride. The proposed name change aims to enhance the building’s representation of the country’s rich cultural and historical identity.
These renovation efforts and budget allocations underscore the importance of the Parliament House as a central institution in Pakistan’s governance. The investments are seen as necessary to preserve the building’s functionality and significance, ensuring it remains a fitting venue for the nation’s legislative activities. The commitment to enhancing the Parliament House reflects a broader initiative to uphold and celebrate Pakistan’s national values and unity.
