MARDAN: The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa provincial government has formally launched the “Cheap Flour Scheme 2026” to provide relief to the people amid skyrocketing prices of daily commodities and flour.
According to Akhunzada Fazal Haq and Price Magistrate Lal Bacha, the offices of the District Food Controller (DFC) are working day and night to make this mission a success. The government has started releasing wheat from strategic reserves to keep the supply chain stable. As per the decision of the provincial cabinet, 136,000 metric tons of wheat are being released to flour mills.
A daily quota has been fixed in each district in proportion to the population, which is distributed equally to the functioning flour mills. Mostly, 20 kg bags are being provided for the convenience of the people.
The government rate has been fixed at Rs 2,220 as compared to the price of a 20 kg bag of flour in the open market (approximately Rs 3,020), resulting in a direct saving of Rs 800 per bag. The Food Department has issued a strict “Code of Conduct” to ensure that there is no compromise on the quality of flour.
To identify government flour, it has been made mandatory to sell it in special green bags on which the name of the mill, code, weight, and price are clearly written. CCTV cameras have been installed in wheat warehouses and flour mills to monitor the grinding of wheat and the departure of flour live.
Flour mills are required to submit reports on wheat receipt and flour production to the Food Department on a daily basis. District Food Controller and Assistant Commissioners visit the sale points daily. Samples of flour are taken, and laboratory tests are conducted to ensure that the moisture and nutritional content are correct.
Orders have been issued to suspend the quota of flour mills and impose heavy fines (about Rs. 20,828 per 100 kg for violation) for quality reduction or overcharging. The public has been advised to buy flour only from government-approved dealers, and in case of any complaint, approach the district administration control room.
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