USC officials warned against misusing subsidy

USC officials warned against misusing subsidy

KARACHI: Utility Stores Corporation (USC) has warned officials of removal from services in case of indulgence in selling subsidized items under the Prime Minister Relief Package in the open market.

In this regard an official memorandum circulated by USC Regional Office Karachi (North) on Thursday directed the officials including Area Managers, Warehouse Incharges and Store Incharges directing them to discharge their duty in optimum facilitation to poor masses as envisaged under the Prime Minister Relief Package.

The government released around Rs6 billion for the provision of lower prices for five main commodities including rice, sugar, pulses, edible ghee, and wheat flour. The package has been aimed at providing relief to ease inflationary pressure for a lower-income segment of society.

Muhammad Javed Khan, Regional Manager, USC Karachi Region (North) in the office memo directed the official to avoid indulgence in selling subsidized items in the open market.

“In case any violation is reported the organization will launch an investigation against officials involved,” the notification said. The officials have also been directed to avoid the bulk sale of subsidized items in order to cater a maximum number of people, it added.

The regional manager warned that any official found involved in unethical practice would be punished, which would include a harsh penalty of removal from service.

The regional manager also warned the officials to avoid purchasing goods from open markets for sale in their outlets. “In case any local purchase detected then concern store in charge, staff and area manager will be responsible,” it added.

The north region issued guidelines for the officials to ensure transparency in their routine business, which included:

— Record of sale should be maintained.

— Avoid displaying demurrage and expired stuff.

— No overprice will be tolerated. All items should be sold at price fixed by the USC.

— Store timings should be observed.

— Ensure maximum facilitation to customers.