Pakistan Implements Section 144 In Balochistan To Prevent Wheat & Flour Smuggling

According to a notification from the Government of Balochistan’s Department of Food, Section 144 has been enforced across Balochistan, particularly in the Naseerabad division.

The purpose of this measure is to restrict the movement of wheat and flour from the province to other provinces. The objective is to ensure that there is an adequate supply of wheat and flour within the province until the next wheat production season, thereby maintaining stable prices.

The notification emphasizes the need for the police and administration to enforce Section 144 effectively. It also directs authorities to take action against any individuals who violate the order, regardless of their influence or status, as reported by Daily Intekhab.

Meanwhile, recent reports in Pakistani media indicate that the prices of sugar and flour are once again soaring in various districts of Balochistan, including the provincial capital Quetta. This situation is occurring in several economically disadvantaged districts of Balochistan, where the prices of sugar and flour have seen an increase.

Sugar is being sold at prices ranging from PKR 130 to PKR 200 per kilogram, while flour is being sold at prices ranging from PKR 2,600 to PKR 4,000 for a 20-kilogram bag in various districts, including the provincial capital Quetta. The highest price for sugar is reported in Dalbandin at PKR 200 per kilogram, while the highest price for flour is recorded at PKR 4,000 for a 20-kilogram bag in Saharanpur.

It is worth noting that Pakistan has been facing a flour crisis even during the month of Ramazan. In May, the Flour Mills Association of Pakistan announced an indefinite shutdown of all mills.