Punjab CM Orders Crackdown on Wheat Hoarding, Sets Three-Day Deadline for Declaration
Lahore: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz chaired a special meeting on wheat hoarding and announced strict measures to curb illegal stockpiling amid the ongoing flood crisis.
The meeting decided to give wheat stockists a three-day deadline to voluntarily declare their reserves. After the deadline, legal action will be taken against those found hoarding illegally. However, no action will be taken against those who declare their wheat stocks in good faith.
Maryam Nawaz stressed that the government must exercise its authority to protect public interest, warning that those exploiting the flood situation to create an artificial shortage would face no leniency. She directed officials to identify hidden wheat stocks using all available resources and to ensure that wheat and flour prices remain stable.
The Chief Minister also ordered continuous inspections across the province, mandatory display of official price lists at all shops, and strict action against violators.
Expressing anger over the wastage of wheat in Khanewal during the floods, Maryam Nawaz removed the Director General of the Food Department from his post and suspended the District Food Controller along with other staff for failing to secure wheat in time.
