Saturday, April 12, 2008, Rabi-ul-Sani 5,1429    

Hoti warns against artificial atta crisis

Peshawar—NWFP Chief Minister Ameer Haider Khan Hoti has expressed annoyance over the artificially created atta shortage in the market, directing the concerned authorities to initiate a stern action against hoarders and profiteers.

“We will not tolerate any lethargy on the part of government officials, who are responsible for maintaining the prices of essential commodities,” Hoti told a delegation of the provincial legislators from various constituencies, who called on him at the Frontier House, Peshawar on Friday.

The Chief Minister said his government would not spare anyone found guilty of artificially creating shortage of flour in the market and warned that such elements would be dealt with in an iron hand.

He also warned against atta smuggling and said such practices would not be tolerated at any costs.

Hoti on this occasion issued directives for ensuring provision of sufficient stuff of atta to the remote areas of the province. He said the people of remote areas should be provided the basic commodity at their door steps on nominal rate.

Stressing the need for check and balance system in the Utility Stores, CM said the government officials would also face the consequences of their wrongdoings.

Keeping in view deepening atta crisis in the province, the chief minister directed for practical steps to ensure that the sanctioned quota of atta has reached every district of the province. —AP P