LAHORE: Authorities in Punjab, Pakistan has taken strict measures and crackdown to ensure the supply of quality fertilizers to farmers at fixed rates, official said on Tuesday.
According to a press statement, a high-level meeting presided over by Chief Secretary Punjab Zahid Akhtar Zaman was also held in this connection in Lahore. The statement added that the meeting reviewed actions against the traders for overcharging on fertilizers and other food items. The meeting also discussed the prices of utilities items in the province.
Punjab Govt. Takes Strict Crackdown Against Traders for Overcharging on Fertilizers
On the occasion, Secretary Agricultural told the meeting that 149 traders were arrested while 265 cases were registered during the crackdown. According to the officials, Punjab Land Authority staff were also appointed at the sale points to verify ownership of the agricultural lands to ensure the supply of quality fertilizers to farmers.
The Chief Secretary Punjab issued directives that fertilizers would be provided to the farmers under the supervision of district administration. He added that strict action will be taken against traders for overcharging.
On the directions of Deputy Commissioner Gujranwala AC Wazirabad visited fertilizers shops. checked stock register, imposed fine on account of overcharging. @CS_Punjab @CommissionerGu3 pic.twitter.com/DBpRpGu1Mp
— Deputy Commissioner Gujranwala (@DCGRW) February 19, 2023
The Chief Secretary Punjab also issued Instructions to start a campaign to increase awareness among the farmers about the proportionate use of fertilizers. He added that price control magistrates must be mobilized in the field to ensure availability of food items at fixed rates. He also sought reports from the district management of Sahiwal regarding price hike in the area.
