Punjab Government to Install Surveillance Cameras in Wedding Halls, Restaurants for Tax Monitoring

LAHORE:The Punjab government has decided to install surveillance cameras in wedding halls, marquees, farmhouses, and major food chains as part of a broader effort to improve tax monitoring and curb tax evasion.

The decision was taken during a meeting on provincial revenue chaired by Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz.

Officials said the initiative aims to track financial transactions across event venues and the food service sector to ensure complete transparency in reporting and taxation. Under the plan, every transaction from wedding halls to large food outlets and farmhouses will be monitored and accounted for.

The chief minister directed authorities to submit weekly reports on tax collection and sector mapping, while also accelerating the shift from a cash-based economy to digital payments.

During the briefing, it was reported that Punjab’s revenue collection has increased by 38 percent, rising from Rs250 billion to Rs346 billion. For the fiscal year 2026–27, the province has set a revenue target of Rs528 billion.

Maryam Nawaz emphasized a strict policy against tax evasion, stating that no tolerance will be shown toward those hiding sales or issuing fake receipts. She added that both digital systems and surveillance tools will be used to detect irregularities and improve compliance.

Officials said the move is part of wider reforms aimed at strengthening the provincial revenue system and promoting digital financial practices.