Ahsan Iqbal Instructs Provinces to Control Inflation After Fuel Price Surge

Islamabad: Federal Minister for Planning and Development Ahsan Iqbal has directed provincial governments to take immediate measures to curb inflationary pressures following a recent increase in fuel prices. He issued these directives while chairing an online meeting of the National Price Monitoring Committee today. The meeting reviewed the impact of rising petroleum prices on transportation fares and essential commodities.

According to Radio Pakistan, the Minister instructed provincial authorities to ensure that transport departments issue revised fare notifications within 24 hours and strictly enforce them. He emphasized that the benefit of government subsidies must not be negated by arbitrary increases imposed by transporters. Highlighting the likelihood of a “second-round effect” on food prices due to higher logistics costs, the Minister ordered weekly monitoring of essential commodities.

Ahsan Iqbal further directed market committees and district administrations to regulate wholesale and retail prices. He instructed them to monitor profit margins to prevent hoarding and profiteering. He also directed the Ministry of Interior and provincial authorities to take immediate steps to prevent smuggling of urea fertilizer and ensure adequate availability for farmers. The National Price Monitoring Committee will now convene on a weekly basis to closely track price movements.