KARACHI, June 9: The chief secretary, Dr Mutawakkil Kazi on Wednesday expressed concern over the negative trend of increase in prices of essential commodities , and directed officials concerned to devise a comprehensive strategy for continuous monitoring of prices of meat, grains, milk and other essential commodities.

Acting on public complaints received by his office regarding the increase in prices, he also asked concerned authorities to take stern action against profiteers and black-marketers.

Kazi directed secretary Trade and Industry, DCO Karachi Mir Hussain Ali and Bureau of Supply and Prices to strictly monitor all channels for the sale of essential commodities, and ensure that these were sold at prescribed rates.

He expressed concern over the rate of milk being sold at Rs25-26 per litre, mutton at Rs200-250 per kg, beef at Rs120-150 per kg, and sugar, rice, pulses, spices, fruits and vegetables at exorbitant rates.

Officials were also directed to take action against traders who do not display price-lists at convenient places outside their shops and other businesses.

Meanwhile, the chief secretary also sought a report on encroachments, garbage and unauthorised bus-stands under the Liaquatabad flyover near Al-Azam Square, from the Additional Chief Secretary (Local Government), DCO and other officials. - PPI