Hoarders creating artificial shortage of medicines

DRAP says launching crackdown against market manipulators

KARACHI:

The metropolis, already reeling from crises like water, gas, and electricity shortages, broken roads, and crime, now faces a looming shortage of life-saving medicines.

The Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) Sindh has decided to launch a crackdown against hoarders responsible for creating an artificial shortage of medicines in Karachi.

As part of the operation, drug inspectors have begun monitoring the drug market. According to the regulatory authority, the availability of all medicines in the market will be ensured, and strict action will be taken against those involved in creating artificial shortages.

DRAP Sindh Head of Operations Dr Ubaid Ali told The Express Tribune that attempts are being made to create an artificial shortage of medicines in the market. He warned that no one will be allowed to play with human health and life.

He added that life-saving drugs are being deliberately made scarce in Karachi, and the authority's inspectors have begun monitoring the situation. He said that uninterrupted supply of all registered medicines in the city should be ensured.

Furthermore, Dr Ubaid Ali revealed that DRAP issued a notification July 8, highlighting the persistent unavailability of essential and life-saving medicines in Karachi. The shortage has posed a serious threat to patients, causing widespread distress and concern.

All relevant registration holders have been instructed to ensure the uninterrupted supply of registered medicines. Failure to comply will result in strict legal action against those responsible for artificial shortages or non-availability of drugs.

The DRAP notification also urged manufacturers and importers to review their supply chains and ensure the timely and continuous availability of all registered medicines.