Aslam orders crackdown against hoarders

Provincial Industries and Trade Minister Aslam Iqbal has directed that selling of 20 kg flour bag at Rs 860 and of 10 kg flour bag at Rs 430 must be ensured.
He disclosed that PTI government is giving subsidy worth billions of rupees for the provision of flour at subsidized rate and the people must receive its fruits. It was decided during the meeting to expedite crackdown against the profiteers, hoarders and those found involved in overcharging will be put behind the bars.
Provincial Industries and Trade Minister Aslam Iqbal chaired an important meeting of Task Force for Price Control at Civil Secretariat in which prices and availability of flour, sugar and other essential edibles came under review. The Minister took a strict notice about selling of flour above fixed rates at few places and asserted that in case of overcharging then the shop will be sealed instead of imposing fine.
The minister directed the administration and concerned officers to remain in the field in order to bring stability in the prices of essential items.
He pledged that he would not allow price-hiking mafia to exploit the masses by committing loot and plunder. The Minister highlighted that the administration itself ascertains the prices of essential items and is also responsible to ensure their implementation.
The Minister warned that no negligence or any lapse will be tolerated in this regard. He maintained that the trust of the masses are highly esteemed and will be safeguarded at any cost.
The Minister also ordered to initiate strict action against those shopkeepers for not displaying rate lists of essential edibles at prominent places.
He further directed relevant officers to regularly visit the markets for the monitoring purpose and should also keep an eye on the prices of kitchen items and spices. DG Industries briefed the Minister about the crackdown being launched against hoarders and price-hikers.
Secretary Industries and Trade Zafar Iqbal, officers of concerned department attended the meeting while Commissioners, Deputy Commissioners and Police officers attended the meeting across the province via video link.
The Minister also expressed his indignation over the absence of few officers in the meeting and directed the concerned officers to ensure their presence in the next meeting.