Falling oil prices:12-13% fare cut planned: Minister

F.P. Report

PESHAWAR: Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Caretaker Minister for Information, Culture, and Tourism, Barrister Feroze Jamal Shah Kakakhel has expressed commitment to the principles of good governance with a primary focus on the welfare of the people during a press conference held at Itlaa Cell Civil Secretariat in Peshawar on Tuesday.

Following a significant decline in oil prices nationwide, the provincial government is swiftly implementing measures to pass on the benefits to the people, he said.
“As part of these efforts, transport fares are set to undergo a substantial reduction of 12 to 13%.

This initiative, which commences in Peshawar, extends across other districts with directives issued to Deputy Commissioners and the formation of inspection committees to ensure effective implementation. It is expected that a noticeable reduction in transport fares and other items will become apparent within a short timeframe”, Minister said.

He said that the Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is actively leading all efforts in this matter, with instructions relayed to administrative officers by the Chief Secretary of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

Barrister Feroze Jamal Shah Kakakhel emphasized during the press conference that good leadership and transparent governance play a pivotal role in ensuring that the benefits of such measures reach the citizens. He also highlighted the positive effects of an increase in rupee’s value and its potential contribution to debt repayment.

He said that Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Government maintains a stringent policy of zero tolerance against smuggling and other criminal activities, which has yielded positive results and continues to be closely monitored. The Caretaker Information and Public Relations Minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to the continuation of these measures.

In response to a query during the press conference, the Caretaker Provincial Information Minister informed that the Government of Pakistan has provided an opportunity for undocumented individuals residing in the country to return to their home countries with dignity and ease.

He underlined that it is essential for people living in a foreign land to possess legal documentation. After October 31, appropriate legal action will be taken against those without proper documentation, irrespective of their country of origin.

Barrister Feroze Jamal Shah Kakakhel emphasized that the objective is not to single out any particular nation but to encourage undocumented individuals to return to their home countries and subsequently come back to Pakistan through legal channels. The government’s stance on this matter remains open and welcoming to those who adhere to legal procedures he said.