DLP Report
PESHAWAR
Chief Secretary Shahab Ali Shah on Monday directed authorities to ensure strict price monitoring and coordinated arrangements across the province for Ramazan, stressing zero tolerance for hoarding and profiteering.
Chairing a high-level meeting to review preparedness, the chief secretary instructed all district administrations to establish price monitoring desks to maintain constant vigilance over essential commodities, a handout said.
According to the statement, CS-KP ordered indiscriminate action against hoarding, adulteration, inflation and profiteering, adding that additional price magistrates had been assigned to ensure prompt enforcement.
Mr Shah emphasised the need for close coordination with market associations and the trader community, underscoring cooperation and mutual respect during enforcement drives. He also directed district administrations to treat all citizens, including street vendors, with dignity and within the ambit of law.
The meeting was informed that, in view of the sanctity of Ramazan, a joint strategy was being devised in consultation with religious scholars to discourage adulteration and unjustified price hikes. Public awareness would also be promoted through Friday sermons to highlight moral and social responsibility.
Officials said comprehensive arrangements had been finalised for traffic management, cleanliness of markets and action against organised professional begging to ensure order in public spaces during the holy month.
Participants were told that with the support of philanthropists and welfare organisations, Ramazan Dastarkhwans would be set up at various locations to provide meals to the needy. Authorities were also coordinating with relevant institutions to ensure uninterrupted electricity and gas supply.
For prompt redressal of complaints, dedicated WhatsApp numbers had been issued in all districts to report overpricing or shortages, while citizens could also lodge complaints through the Marastyal App.
