Low Support Price Set on Federal Directive Led to Flour Crisis, Says Sindh CM Murad Ali Shah
KARACHI: Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah has said that the current flour crisis was caused by the low wheat support price, which was fixed on the instructions of the federal government, resulting in reduced wheat procurement.
Speaking to the media in Karachi, the Chief Minister said the lower support price discouraged farmers from selling wheat to the government, leading to insufficient procurement. He added that the Sindh government had decided to purchase wheat from hoarders at Rs3,000 per maund in accordance with the law.
Murad Ali Shah said that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif was also holding meetings to address the wheat and flour crisis. He stressed that wheat procurement should not be overregulated, as it affects market stability and availability.
Responding to a question, the Chief Minister announced that a new seaport would be developed at Keti Bandar in Sindh to enhance the province’s maritime infrastructure.
On the security situation, Murad Ali Shah said Pakistan was facing a renewed wave of terrorism and that Karachi remained a key target for terrorist groups. He assured that security agencies were closely monitoring the situation and would not allow militants to regain a foothold in the city.
Commenting on Balochistan, the Chief Minister said detailed discussions had been held regarding the province’s security situation and emphasized that the people of Balochistan are loyal to Pakistan.
