ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister (PM) Shehbaz Sharif has instructed for a reduction in the prices of essential goods at utility stores.
The Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) of the Cabinet has approved the continuation of the Prime Minister’s Relief Package for the fiscal year 2024-25 through the Utility Stores Corporation, with revised prices and subsidies.
It will now be submitted to the federal government for final approval. According to a media report, under the PM’s relief package, the monthly subsidy per household would increase by Rs916.
Under the new package, the subsidy on pulses and rice at utility stores would increase by up to 300 percent.
The subsidy on ghee would be increased from Rs70 to Rs100, and on sugar, it would rise from Rs46 to Rs50. Additionally, a subsidy of Rs85 per kg would be provided on wheat flour.
Meanwhile, PM Shehbaz Sharif directed the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), Provincial Disaster Management Authorities (PDMAs), and other relevant agencies to remain on high alert to address the potential severe flooding near the Chenab River and urban flooding caused by heavy rains in Punjab.
As per statement, from PM media office, the prime minister said that he is personally monitoring the anticipated heavy monsoon spell until August 25.
He directed the NDMA, PDMAs, rescue and relief agencies, civil defense, and district administrations to be prepared to protect residents in the Chenab River catchment area and cities at risk of flooding due to heavy rains.
PM Shehbaz instructed the relevant authorities to ensure preparations for the evacuation and rescue of people, as well as for the provision of drainage, water, medicines, tents, and other relief items in any emergency, while also safeguarding the public.
He instructed them to keep the public informed about the anticipated flooding in vulnerable areas and to take precautionary measures to prevent expected floods around canals, nullahs, and rivers.
He also directed that citizens be informed about the NDMA’s Disaster Alert application to monitor the situation at all times.
Simultaneously, prime minister praised the armed forces for their successful operation in Kurram District, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, which resulted in the death of seven Khawarij terrorists and the arrest of five others.
