The Punjab government has decided to deploy digital surveillance systems at marriage halls, marquees, farmhouses, and restaurants across the province in a major move to combat tax evasion and enhance revenue collection.
The decision was taken during a high-level meeting chaired by Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, where officials reviewed provincial revenue performance and discussed measures to strengthen tax administration through technology and transparency.
Under the new initiative, modern camera systems will be installed at marriage halls, marquees, farmhouses, and major restaurant chains to monitor business activities and ensure accurate reporting of sales and transactions. The government is also considering mandatory digital payment options at selected restaurants to improve documentation and reduce the cash economy.
Officials stated that strict action will be taken against businesses involved in issuing fake receipts, underreporting sales, or concealing taxable transactions. The digital monitoring system is expected to help authorities identify tax evasion practices and improve compliance with tax laws.
Speaking at the meeting, Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz reiterated the government’s zero-tolerance policy toward tax evasion, emphasizing that advanced technology would play a key role in making the tax system more efficient, transparent, and accountable.
The meeting was informed that Punjab has set a revenue collection target of Rs. 528.5 billion for the fiscal year 2026-27. Officials highlighted that collections by the Punjab Revenue Authority (PRA) have increased from Rs. 250 billion to Rs. 346 billion, reflecting a growth of 38 percent.
Authorities also noted that the PRA’s operational network has expanded significantly, growing from 10 districts to 26 districts. Additionally, specialized intelligence, investigation, taxpayer audit, and legal wings have been established to strengthen enforcement and improve tax administration across the province.
The latest measures form part of Punjab’s broader strategy to digitize tax collection, increase compliance, and boost provincial revenues through data-driven monitoring and enforcement mechanisms.
