Islamabad: The Ministry of Industries and Production, represented by Special Assistant to the Prime Minister Haroon Akhtar Khan and the Ministry’s Secretary, dismissed allegations from Senator Faisal Vawda during a Senate Standing Committee meeting by providing documentary evidence to support their stance.

According to Press Information Department, the Ministry officials asserted that all decisions made were in compliance with the Rules of Business and involved consultation with relevant stakeholders. They emphasized that Ministry actions received approval from the Federal Cabinet and adhered to necessary legal and institutional protocols.

Khan informed the committee that following Pakistan’s signing of the United Nations WP.29 agreement in 2020, the Ministry took charge of developing vehicle safety standards. He mentioned the Motor Vehicle Development Bill has been presented to the National Assembly, gaining approval from the pertinent committee, and that the Engineering Development Board will oversee vehicle safety regulations post-bill passage.

The SAPM also noted that in September 2025, the Ministry of Commerce tasked the Engineering Development Board with ensuring quality standards for vehicle imports. Khan pointed out past misuses of vehicle import schemes, which led to new conditions allowing imports only under specified requirements to enhance compliance and transparency.

Khan underlined the importance of vehicle safety standards in reducing road accidents, which claim approximately 25,000 lives in Pakistan annually. The Ministry’s evidence countered Vawda’s allegations, noting his failure to provide supporting documentation.

The Ministry affirmed its dedication to transparency, rule adherence, and policy implementation in collaboration with stakeholders.