LAHORE: The Punjab chief secretary has directed that the Tiger Force be utilised for price-control measures by assigning them responsibility of checking rate lists and prices at the shops and reporting violations, if any, to the administration.

CS Jawad Rafique Malik issued the direction at a meeting at his office on Monday where he was briefed that 171 Sahulat Bazaar facilities had been made functional across the province to ensure availability of essential commodities, especially flour and sugar, at the officially-fixed prices.The geotaging of these bazaars had also been completed in 25 districts, the CS was told.

Speaking at the meeting, Mr Malik said the establishment of Sahulat bazaars was aimed to provide maximum relief to the common man. He said the chief minister seeks reports on price control on a daily basis.

He ordered increase in the number of Sahulat bazaars in Lahore and other major cities, besides ensuring the availability of flour, sugar, and other eatables at discounted rates there.

He said a report about the sale of essential commodities, especially flour and sugar, in Sahulat bazaars be sent to him daily.He also asked the officers to keep a check on the prices, demand and supply of food items in the open market as well and increase inspections. He said in order to control prices, it was very important to get timely information about demand and supply situation, and production of agricultural commodities, including fruits and vegetables. He said the agriculture and other provincial departments concerned would have to play an active role in this regard.

The meeting was also attended by administrative secretaries of relevant departments, including industries, agriculture, and food, Lahore commissioner, and special branch additional IG.

The divisional commissioners and deputy commissioners participated through video link.

Published in Dawn, October 20th, 2020