PESHAWAR: Following the Punjab government’s restrictions on inter-provincial movement of wheat, the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) government has taken immediate steps to protect public interest and ensure food security in the province.
Chief Minister Muhammad Sohail Afridi has directed the Provincial Food Department to release 136,000 metric tons of wheat from strategic reserves to curb rising prices and ensure uninterrupted availability of essential food items.
Wheat prices in the provincial market had surged to Rs. 13,650 per 100 kilograms after the restrictions, prompting the KP government to provide wheat at a subsidized rate of Rs. 10,414 per 100 kilograms. This means a 20-kilogram bag of flour will now be available at Rs. 2,220, down from Rs. 3,020.
The Chief Minister emphasized that Article 151 of the Constitution guarantees the free movement of essential commodities, and the KP government will not allow administrative barriers to disrupt food availability. He assured that wheat distribution will be transparent and strictly regulated, supplying only eligible flour mills and authorized dealers.
Muhammad Sohail Afridi warned that hoarding, profiteering, and overcharging will not be tolerated, and strict action will be taken against violators. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to safeguarding the interests of the common man and ensuring affordable access to essential commodities.
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