THOUGH there is a bureau of statistics in the country that is responsible for providing the public with data about various aspects of our national life, there seems to be a significant gap when it comes to data on financial wastage in governance. There is a clear lack of transparency when it comes to such wastage.
For instance, we all know that traffic jams are a regular occurrence in our cities, and they often lead to a significant amount of fuel wastage.
However, we do not have any official statistics about the amount of fuel wasted in traffic jams in our cities.
Similarly, the government often blocks roads to provide security for events, such as trade exhibitions or cricket matches, that causes significant inconvenience to the citizensand adds to the burden of fuel wastage.
The wastage of fuel is not just a matter of fuel; it is directly linked to foreign exchange. Besides, the long hours people areforcedtospendontheroadsin such scenarios carry an opportunity cost, which is known to any statistician.
It is time for the national data management system to take a more proactive role in gathering and disseminating data about the wastage in governance terms. Once we have reliable numbers in front of us, we can work together to find solutions that will help reduce this wastage and improve the overall efficiency of the government.
It is time we had better transparency and accountability in all government affairs, which is an essential requirement for the development of the country.
