Punjab Chief Minister enforces vigilance to curb inflated prices of essential goods

Punjab's Chief Minister Mohsin Naqvi has initiated a rigorous monitoring system across the province's markets. This move comes as part of the government's commitment to alleviate the burden of inflation on the citizens.

In an influential meeting convened on Wednesday, Chief Minister Mohsin Naqvi took the helm of discussions centred around price control. The meeting marked a pivotal moment as crucial decisions were charted to extend solace to the province's populace while simultaneously wrestling inflation under control.

Speaking earnestly, Chief Minister Naqvi underscored the significance of scrutinizing every nook and cranny of the markets.

He underscored that the duty rests upon the provincial ministers, advisers, commissioners, and deputy commissioners to ensure regular and vigilant visits to these markets. Their vigilant presence, he emphasized, would deter unscrupulous price hikes and the illicit profiteering that exacerbates the economic woes of the people.

Chief Minister Naqvi didn't mince his words when he reiterated that all markets within Punjab's jurisdiction would be subject to unwavering scrutiny. A distinctive directive was issued to enforce the clear display of rate lists of essential commodities in a conspicuous manner within shops. Such a move, Naqvi believes, would empower consumers with information and obliterate any room for unjust price hikes.

Asserting an unequivocal stance against exploitation, Chief Minister Naqvi asserted that strict enforcement will be directed against hoarders and profiteers. The policy of zero tolerance adopted for these parties echoes the government's commitment to ensuring the affordability of essential goods.

To ensure the steadfast implementation of these directives, Price Control Magistrates have been entrusted with the responsibility of guaranteeing the sale of essential commodities at their designated prices. These magistrates will immerse themselves in marketplaces and bazaars, assuring adherence to the prescribed price lists.

Acknowledging the challenges stemming from inflation, Chief Minister Naqvi rallied for collective efforts to extend substantial relief to the masses. He reiterated that the performance of district administrations in price control would be meticulously reviewed on a daily basis.

Accompanying these sweeping measures, the Chief Minister's inspection team, in collaboration with the special branch, will furnish a comprehensive report on the efficacy of the strategies deployed for price control.

During the meeting, insights were shared by various key figures. The Secretary of Industries shed light on the availability and pricing of essential commodities. The Secretary of Livestock apprised attendees on chicken prices and supplies, while the Food Secretary presented valuable data on sugar demand and prices.

Provincial Ministers, Advisors, Chief Secretary, Inspector General Police, Chairman Planning and Development Board, Chairman Chief Minister Inspection Team, Senior Member Board of Revenue, Additional IG Special Branch, Secretaries Industries, Food, Finance, Transport, Livestock, Agriculture were present in the meeting. , Commissioner Lahore Division, CAN Commissioner, Chairman Punjab Information Technology Board, Deputy Commissioner, Nadeem Raza and related authorities participated.

All Divisional Commissioners and RPOs participated in the meeting through video link.