PTBP Web Desk
In a significant development that promises relief for countless citizens, Pakistan has successfully cleared the longstanding backlog of passports in major urban centers including Islamabad, Karachi, and Lahore.
This resolution marks a critical step in streamlining administrative procedures and enhancing the passport issuance process for both domestic and overseas Pakistanis. the announcement came from the Director-General of Passports, who confirmed that not only has the backlog in major cities been addressed, but issues with online applications from abroad have also been resolved. This news brings considerable relief to many who have faced extended wait times and uncertainty regarding their travel documents.
Further bolstering the good news, the Director-General reported that over 24,000 passports have been successfully delivered to overseas Pakistanis. Priority has been specifically given to frequent travelers, aiding those who rely heavily on travel for professional or personal reasons. This prioritization underscores the government’s recognition of the importance of facilitating seamless travel for its global citizenry.
Historically, the passport processing capacity has faced significant challenges. While the daily demand for passports reached approximately 65,000, the actual printing capability was limited to only 23,000 due to technological constraints. However, the Director-General expressed optimism about the near future, noting that the expected arrival of new printers within the next month should drastically increase processing efficiency and output. Once these printers are operational, the daily issuance rate is anticipated to meet, if not exceed, the current demand.
The issue of passport delays had previously resonated within the halls of the National Assembly, drawing attention from various political leaders. In response to a call attention notice by Aga Rafiullah of the Pakistan People’s Party, the Minister for Law and Justice, Azam Nazir Tarar, addressed the concerns raised. He acknowledged the disparity between the demand for passports and the printing capacity, citing daily requests at around 44,000 while the issuance hovered between 25,000 to 26,000. The minister assured that efforts were underway to expedite the process and improve service delivery across the board.
The clearance of the passport backlog and the steps taken to address the issuance delays are more than just administrative adjustments; they represent a significant move towards improving governmental efficiency and responsiveness to public needs. For citizens, both within Pakistan and abroad, these developments mean reduced waiting times, less uncertainty, and more reliable planning for travel.
With the arrival of new printing technology, the passport issuance process is poised for a major overhaul. The integration of advanced printing solutions is expected to not only catch up with the existing demand but also to set a new standard for processing efficiency. This technological upgrade is a key element in the government’s strategy to modernize its services and ensure that citizens’ needs are met promptly and effectively.
