The government is considering shutting down the Utility Stores Corporation (USC), a move confirmed by the Secretary of Industries and Production during a recent meeting of the Senate Standing Committee on Industries and Production.
The discussion revealed that the government is actively evaluating the closure of USC as part of a broader plan to withdraw from non-essential business activities.
Senator Saifullah Niazi raised the question about the future of the USC, asking if the government was indeed planning to shut down the state-run chain of stores.
The Secretary of Industries and Production confirmed this, stating that the government is seriously contemplating the closure of USC. He further explained that the government’s focus is on reallocating USC employees to other departments, as part of an ongoing effort to streamline operations and reduce involvement in commercial enterprises.
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The Secretary elaborated that one of the reasons behind this decision is the impact of USC on market competition. He noted that the relief provided through USC often disrupts competitive practices in the market.
Senate Committee Takes Notice
The Senate Standing Committee on Industries and Production has taken strong notice of the federal government’s consideration to close the Utility Stores Corporation.
The committee has demanded detailed information from the Secretary of Industries and Production regarding this potential decision.
Chairman of the committee, Senator Aon Abbas Bappi, has expressed concern over the decision, stating that it is an extremely unfortunate development that he was unaware of.
Bappi emphasized that the matter of closing these stores had not been previously disclosed, and the information provided by the Secretary was deeply troubling.
Senator Bappi further questioned the government’s awareness of the impact on thousands of employees, expressing concern over where these employees will be adjusted or if they will be left unemployed.
