By Moin Ullah Shah
KARACHI: Authorities have intensified action against flour price violations across Karachi on the directives of the Sindh government, carrying out hundreds of inspections and imposing fines on businesses found breaching official pricing rules.
According to the district administration, 673 inspections were conducted at flour mills, flour grinding units, wholesalers and retail shops across the city’s seven districts.
Officials reported 143 violations of government-fixed flour prices and related regulations. Fines totalling Rs1.205 million were imposed on businesses involved in overcharging and other breaches, while two outlets were sealed over serious violations.
The administration also issued 144 warning notices to flour mills, grinding units and retailers, warning them to comply with official prices. Businesses selling flour above the notified rate were fined.
District-wise, Korangi recorded the highest number of inspections, with 202 premises checked. Authorities identified 27 violations, imposed fines of Rs364,000 and sealed one outlet.
In South District, officials carried out 135 inspections, detecting 46 violations and issuing fines worth Rs354,000. East District saw 103 inspections, with 21 violations resulting in fines of Rs165,000.
In Central District, 81 inspections uncovered 21 violations, leading to fines of Rs159,000, while one business was sealed. In Keamari, authorities reported 21 violations and imposed fines totalling Rs154,000.
The administration said 322 flour-related businesses were found to be complying with government regulations, while flour was being sold at official prices at 57 locations across the city.
The Sindh government has directed district administrations to continue regular inspections of flour stocks, licences and official price lists. It warned that strict legal action would be taken against businesses involved in overcharging, illegal hoarding or violating government directives.
