By FAZAL HAQ
MARDAN — The district administration in Mardan has finalized administrative preparations for the upcoming holy month of Ramadan, with authorities directed to ensure adequate food supply, strict price control, and immediate public grievance redressal across the district.
A high-level meeting was held at the Deputy Commissioner’s Office under the chairmanship of Waseef Ur Rehman, in line with special instructions issued by the Government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
The meeting was attended by Additional Deputy Commissioner (General) Eid Nawaz Sherani, Additional Deputy Commissioner (Finance and Planning) Syed Fahad Iftikhar, assistant commissioners from across the district, and officials from the Food Department, the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Food Safety and Halal Food Authority, and other relevant departments.
Focus on food availability and price control
Officials reviewed the availability of essential food items, implementation of government relief measures, and enforcement strategies to prevent hoarding and profiteering during Ramadan. The deputy commissioner directed assistant commissioners, food department officials, and the food authority to conduct joint inspections of godowns, wholesale markets, and major retail outlets to ensure uninterrupted supply and prevent artificial shortages.
Price Control Magistrates were instructed to carry out daily market inspections, ensure the display of official price lists at prominent locations, and impose fines and legal action against violators.
Grievance redressal and Ramadan bazaars
To facilitate immediate resolution of public complaints, the administration decided to establish special grievance desks and camps in major city markets during Ramadan. Complaints received at these desks will be addressed on the spot by concerned officers.
In addition, the district control room and official complaint helplines will remain active throughout the month to respond to citizens’ concerns. The meeting also discussed the establishment of Ramadan Bazaars, where required, to provide quality food items at affordable prices under an effective monitoring mechanism.
Traffic and security arrangements
Officials were briefed on traffic management and security plans, with special instructions issued to maintain smooth traffic flow during peak hours and ensure public convenience, particularly in busy market areas.
Deputy Commissioner Waseef Ur Rehman said providing maximum relief to citizens during Ramadan remains the top priority of the provincial government, stressing that all departments must remain active in the field and take uncompromising action against hoarding and illegal profiteering.
The meeting concluded with a commitment from the district administration to utilize all available resources to ensure smooth, secure, and citizen-friendly arrangements throughout the holy month.
