Staff Reporter
Lahore
Chief Minister of Punjab Sardar Usman Buzdar has approved to daily release 25,000 tons wheat to flour mills, said a statement on Tuesday
The Chief Minister stated the decision has been made to stabilize flour prices and pointed out that Punjab is the only province where 20kg flour bag is available at Rs.860. “I am personally monitoring the flour prices as well as the release of wheat to flour mills while the government will continue to take steps to facilitate the citizens,” he added.
Meanwhile, the Chief Secretary of Punjab has directed the deputy commissioners to closely monitor flour mills after the increase in the government wheat quota. He mentioned that all districts would get wheat quota as per their demand to ensure the availability of a sufficient quantity of flour at the fixed price across the province.
He issued this direction while presiding over a meeting to review the price control measures. The meeting reviewed prices and availability of essential commodities in Sahulat bazaars, open market, and the ongoing crackdown against hoarders and profiteers in the province. The divisional commissioners briefed the Chief Secretary about the steps being taken to control the prices of commodities in the districts.
Speaking at the meeting, the Chief Secretary asked the administrative officers to keep a strict check on the process of wheat grinding and flour supply from the mills to market. He directed that the non-functional mills selling wheat quota be closed down for the whole season, instead of only imposing fine on them.
The Chief Secretary said that as per the directions of the Prime Minister and Chief Minister Punjab, steps are being taken to overcome the issue of price-hike under a comprehensive strategy. He said that the Punjab government was providing billions of rupees subsidy on flour with the view to provide relief to the common man. He ordered the officer to provide all necessary facilities in the Sahulat bazaars but restrained them from making unnecessary expenses there. He also issued instructions for regular checking of the rate lists at shops. He said that besides monitoring prices, the quality of essential commodities should also be ensured in Sahulat bazaar, adding that providing relief to consumers is a top priority.
