CM Punjab Usman Buzdar has given directive to the price control committee, as well as the provincial administration, to continue taking steps to control the sugar prices, adding that strict action against those selling the commodity at high rates must also be taken.
CM Buzdar asked the administration officials to visit markets to monitor sugar prices while continuing the crackdown against hoarders.
The CM stated that the government was taking every step to ensure availability, as well as the sale of sugar, at the fixed rate, while reiterating that protection of consumers’ rights is the responsibility of the government.
He added that the exploitation of the common people would not be tolerated and every step was being taken to curb the mafias involved in such activities, while stressing that unjustified increase in sugar prices would not be allowed.
CM Buzdar went on to assert that the interest of the people was dear to the government and no one would be allowed to violate the laws, while instructing the food, agriculture and industries departments to make coordinated efforts while exploring every option to stop the unjustified increase in sugar prices.
The CM went on to add that unjustified price increase and hoarding won’t be tolerated by the government as there is no shortage of sugar and ample reserves are available in the province.
Earlier, CM Buzdar issued instructions while presiding over a meeting for steps to start the sugarcane crushing season at the earliest, where he was briefed about sugar stocks and demand in the province. In the meeting, he stated that the administration should ensure availability of sugar in small shops in order to stabilise the market, while adding that the sugar situation should be reviewed on a daily basis.
During the meeting, the CM was informed that there was ample stock of sugar in Lahore and other areas of the province. Sugar is available at Rs90 per kilogramme in 200 mega stores and 1,200 small shops in Lahore.
