Utility Stores losses
With many of its outlets across the country running in losses, the Utility Stores Corporation (USC) has jacked up the prices of many items. Various brands of ghee and cooking oil have become dearer by Rs90 and Rs70 per 5kg respectively. Moreover, the prices of spices, tomato ketchup, custard, pudding as well as soap and tissue paper have also gone up with immediate effect.
During the previous tenure — led by the PML-N — the USC had incurred an accumulative loss of Rs9.4 billion; and it seems not much has changed with the PTI taking over the reins of the government, more than three years back. The corporation has failed to curb pilferage, theft and other irregularities, and continues to suffer losses. The fresh raise in prices appears to be an exercise to offset the impact of these losses.
The situation clearly indicates that the relevant authorities are only trying to control the losses at the expense of the people. What is even more disconcerting is the fact that the situation has not been investigated. Claims made by officials are rudimentary at best, while their actions and recommendations may provide temporary relief. It is feared that if the situation persists, the government might resort to shutting down more outlets and laying off employees, as it remains the easiest way out for those at the helm. This perpetual cycle will continue to repeat itself unless and until long-term solutions are sought.
A systematic approach is required. The first step should be to conduct a holistic research into finding out the core reason behind such losses, while particularly taking into consideration the rural-urban divide. Then the social dynamics must be assessed and stores need to be relocated to those areas where demand and purchase is high. However, all this must be done in a human-centric way. The needs of the people must be the topmost priority.
Published in The Express Tribune, September 13th, 2021.
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