The Punjab government hired private helicopters for rescue and relief work during the severe 2025 floods. Official records show the services cost Rs 160.3 million and lasted 17 days, from 28 August to 13 September 2025.
The helicopters came from a private company called Askari Aviation. They helped with emergency operations across flood-hit areas of the province. The Punjab Finance Department has now raised questions about the bill.
Officials noted that the process to approve and pay the amount started eight months after the helicopters were used. They also pointed out that no independent check was done to confirm the exact flying hours billed. In addition, there was no separate review to see if the rates charged matched normal market prices.
The department has already released large sums of about Rs 72 billion, for flood rescue, relief and rebuilding work. The Punjab Chief Secretary said the helicopters were taken on an emergency basis and the provincial government must pay the cost.
The Finance Department is still examining the delayed paperwork, flight records, rate fairness and any tax issues before clearing the full payment.
