ISLAMABAD: The federal cabinet on Tuesday approved the formation of a commission to probe the petrol crisis.
Addressing a press conference after a meeting of the federal cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Imran Khan, Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Shibli Faraz said that the cabinet has approved the constitution of a commission to inquire into the causes of shortage of petrol last month. He said the commission will give recommendations to ensure that such a situation does not develop in future.
The information minister said that the country has sufficient stock of wheat and sugar, and there is no issue of demand and supply in the products. He said that wheat is being supplied to the flour mills in Punjab, and the provincial government is providing Rs16 billion subsidy on the product.
He, however, said the private and public sectors have been directed to import wheat to meet the deficit of 1.5 million tonnes. The minister said the district administration has been directed to take strict action against hoarders of wheat and sugar.
The minister said that Prime Minister Imran expressed satisfaction over the encouraging indicators about Naya Pakistan Housing Scheme. He said a boost to the construction sector will have a positive impact on the overall economy.
He said the matter about payment of outstanding dues of media houses will be resolved immediately after the Eid. The minister said the poor sewerage system in Karachi has been exposed in the recent rains, which caused serious problems for the residents of the city. He regretted that the Sindh government has not improved infrastructure in the city.
The minister assured that the federal government will perform its role in the matter to mitigate sufferings of the people of Karachi.
About Covid-19 situation, Shibli Faraz said the trend of the coronavirus cases has considerably declined due to the government’s effective smart lockdown policy. He, however, warned that carelessness during Eidul Azha will again raise coronavirus cases. He urged the people to strictly follow safety standard operating procedures (SOPs) against Covid-19.
Earlier, the cabinet discussed the 13-point agenda and overall political and economic situation in the country. During the meeting, PM Imran vowed to hold those accountable responsible for the petrol crisis in the country.
A draft of rules and regulations for the appointment of Water and Power Development Authority (WAPDA) chairman and members was also presented for suggestions.
Furthermore, the federal cabinet also approved the decision taken by the Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) on July 22 while a progress report on institutional reforms was also presented during the meeting.
It is pertinent to mention here that the oil crisis surfaced across the country in the month of July after the government made significant cut in petroleum prices on recommendation of the Oil & Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA).
