ISLAMABAD – The federal government has denied the closure of utility stores, where subsidised essential items are provided to public, across Pakistan
In the National Assembly, Asifa Bhutto Zardari, Naveed Qamar, Nafisa Shah, and Ejaz Jakhrani took up the matter regarding the potential closure of utility stores and Pakistan Public Works Department (PWD).
In response to the notice, Federal Minister Rana Tanveer stated that various options, including the closure of utility stores, were discussed within the cabinet. However no decision was taken in this regard, he said, adding that the government is focusing on restructuring the utility stores.
Rana Tanveer further said that the restructuring process will proceed with consultations with stakeholders.
Last month, it had emerged that the government had given two weeks to close all utility stores in Pakistan.
Utility Stores in Pakistan are a network of government-operated retail outlets designed to provide essential goods at subsidised prices to lower-income families.
