Dr. Firdous denies wheat crisis existence, says commodities available at cheap prices.

SIALKOT -- Special Assistant to Prime Minister on Information and Broadcasting Dr. Firdous Ashiq Awan on Sunday refuted reports that the government was responsible for the prevailing wheat flour crisis and its shortage while stating that 'flour, wheat, rice and pulses are available at utility stores at cheap prices'. Firdous Ashiq Awan said some elements have continued negative propaganda regarding flour prices and supplies. She said that the nation is bearing and will bear all the difficulties on the hope that Pakistan will have to move forward towards better direction under the leadership of Imran Khan. She said that if flour mills and Atta Chakkis are becoming part of the price spiral intentionally then to defeat these mafias and break this network a helpline 080060606 has been launched and people are requested through media to call on this number if flour is being sold over Rs 805 outside any flour mill so that we could take action against hoarders and responsible for increasing difficulties for masses.

Addressing a press conference at Sialkot on Sunday, Dr. Firdous Ashiq Awan said she has been given the task to deal with the matter related to the artificial crisis of flour in Punjab. She was of the view that it is necessary to stop negative propaganda. Sindh government has not purchased wheat on time.

'It is the federal government's responsibility to provide food across the country. Sindh government showed negligence over wheat supplies despite the federal government took the decision to provide 400,000 tons of wheat to Sindh out of which the province took 100,000 tons so far. It is the failure of Sindh authorities to supply wheat to its flour mills.

'Over directives of Prime Minister Imran Khan, a fast track mechanism is being introduced and a helpline is established against the artificial crisis of flour. Moreover, strict action against responsible persons who are increasing prices is needed. We will reduce flour prices through sale points and Punjab government also initiated crackdowns against the selling of flour on increased rates.'

The federal government is providing subsidy on flour to 815 mills, whereas, the owners are needed to stop selling of flour on increased rates, said Awan, adding that action will be taken over selling 20-kilogram flour sack for more than Rs805. 'PM Imran Khan has said to take strict action against hoarders and profiteers,' said the special assistant.

'Some elements are giving a false impression that the...