KARACHI: Chief Minister of Sindh Syed Murad Ali Shah on Monday said that 3,976 vehicles had so far been processed under the fuel subsidy scheme, with Rs146.77 million disbursed.

He was informed that more than 5,000 cases were under review due to errors such as computerised national identity card (CNIC) mismatches, missing details of bank accounts and other data inconsistencies.

This emerged at a meeting held to review the implementation of the targeted fuel subsidy for the transport sector, introduced in response to the recent hike in fuel prices.

The chief minister presided over the meeting and directed the authorities to expedite disbursements while strengthening data accuracy and enforcement mechanisms.

Over 5,000 cases held up due to CNIC mismatches, missing banking details; CM orders faster payments and improved verification

The meeting, held at CM House, was attended by Sindh Transport Minister Sharjeel Memon, Excise Minister Mukesh Chawla, Sindh Chief Secretary Asif Hyder Shah, PSCM Agha Wasif, Secretary IPC Asif Ikram, Secretary Finance Fayaz Jatoi, Secretary Transport Asad Zamin, Secretary Excise Saleem Rajput, along with other senior officials.

The chief minister was informed that the subsidy programme, jointly financed by the federal and provincial governments, aims to support goods transporters and public service vehicles. Sindh has so far submitted data of 11,980 eligible vehicles.

The meeting was told that 3,976 vehicles have so far been processed, with Rs146.77m disbursed, while over 5,000 cases were being reviewed due to errors such as CNIC mismatches, missing IBAN details, and data inconsistencies.

Expressing concern over delays and returned cases, the CM directed all departments to resolve data issues on a priority basis and ensure that maximum eligible transporters receive relief without further delay.

“Relief must reach genuine transporters quickly. There should be zero tolerance for delays caused by incomplete or inaccurate data,” he said.

He instructed the Transport and Excise departments to coordinate closely with the federal authorities to address pending cases and streamline verification processes.

Digital reforms in transport department

The meeting was informed that the transport department has initiated major digital reforms, including the automation of the motor vehicle inspection (MVI), Provincial Transport Authority (PTA), and Regional Transport Authority (RTA) systems, as well as integration with Excise, Traffic Police, and National Highways & Motorway Police.

The chief minister appreciated these efforts and directed further strengthening of the digital ecosystem. “Technology must be used to eliminate inefficiencies, improve transparency, and ensure effective regulation of the transport sector,” he said.

The chief minister highlighted that better coordination between transport, excise, and law enforcement agencies is essential for the effective implementation of subsidy and regulatory measures.

Published in Dawn, April 21st, 2026