LAHORE: The Punjab government is contemplating to set up a price control authority, and committee working in this regard is hopefully to complete its work within next 10 days.
This was disclosed by Punjab Industries & Trade Minister Mian Aslam Iqbal while chairing a meeting of the task force for price control here on Thursday. The meeting discussed availability of essential edibles, their prices and monitoring process came under review.
Aslam Iqbal regretfully remarked that violation of prices fixed by the government of essential items in few areas is a question mark on the performance of the relevant district administration. He directed the administration to reform their professional, competent and abilities. He maintained that whatever sugar price is fixed by the committee set up by the federal government will be fully implemented in Punjab.
The minister informed that 20kg flour bag is available at Rs860 in Punjab. He directed the administration to keep a strict vigil on the prices of ghee in the markets. He directed that administration of every district should review the prices of pulses jointly with the Karyana Merchants Association. He emphasized that industries & trade department must be taken into confidence while fixing the prices of pulses. He deplored over non-display of price lists in the shops so far and directed to take strict action against those shopkeepers who failed to adhere to the government instructions.
The minister asserted that effective steps must be taken to eradicate price hiking and hoarding mafias in the province. He exhorted the officials concerned to work as a unified team with diligence and dedication in order to bring stability in the prices of essential items.
Secretary I&T Capt Zafar Iqbal (retd), DG Industries and officers of concerned departments attended the meeting while commissioners, deputy commissioners and police officers across the province attended the meeting via video link.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2020
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