More than 5,000 claims for the targeted fuel subsidy scheme in Sindh are currently stalled due to significant data inconsistencies, including CNIC mismatches and missing bank account details, overshadowing the Rs146.77 million already dispensed to 3,976 processed vehicles. Presiding over a review meeting, Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah expressed serious concern over these delays, mandating swift data rectification and enhanced enforcement to guarantee transparent and timely financial relief.
The relief undertaking, jointly financed by the federal and provincial governments, was initiated to support goods transporters and public service vehicles following a recent surge in fuel prices. Sindh has submitted data for 11,980 eligible vehicles under the programme.
Mr. Shah underscored his “zero tolerance” for delays stemming from incomplete or inaccurate information, insisting that assistance must reach genuine transporters promptly. He instructed the Transport and Excise departments to coordinate closely with federal authorities to resolve pending cases and streamline the verification process.
The high-level meeting at CM House was attended by Minister for Transport Sharjeel Memon, Minister for Excise Mukesh Chawla, Chief Secretary Asif Hyder Shah, and several other senior officials.
The Chief Minister was apprised of major digital reforms initiated by the Transport Department. These include the automation of Motor Vehicle Inspection (MVI), Provincial Transport Authority (PTA), and Regional Transport Authority (RTA) systems, alongside their integration with Excise, Traffic Police, and National Highways and Motorway Police. Mr. Shah commended these efforts, directing further strengthening of the digital ecosystem to eliminate inefficiencies and improve regulatory oversight.
Furthermore, Murad Ali Shah ordered stringent enforcement of route permit and fitness certification requisites, noting that registration gaps and lax oversight have permitted numerous vehicles to operate unregulated. He directed that no vehicle should be registered or transferred without route permit verification, intensifying field enforcement through traffic police, and imposing strict penalties on non-compliant vehicles.
The Chief Minister highlighted that improved coordination among Transport, Excise, and law enforcement agencies is paramount for effective implementation of both the subsidy and regulatory measures. He affirmed that ongoing automation and integration would help incorporate undocumented vehicles into the formal system, thereby enhancing compliance and ensuring targeted delivery of government support.
Reaffirming his government’s commitment, Murad Ali Shah stated that the subsidy drive aims to stabilise the transport sector and safeguard the public from the repercussions of escalating fuel costs. He concluded by asserting, “Our objective is to support transporters while ensuring transparency and accountability. Every eligible beneficiary must receive relief in a fair and timely manner.’