Caretaker Interior Minister Urges Swift Resolution as Passport Backlog Grows
The issuance of Pakistani passports, which was temporarily suspended on October 11 due to a shortage of lamination paper, is likely to restart next week, according to the Director General (DG) of Passports. The DG assured Caretaker Interior Minister Sarfraz Bugti of this development during discussions about the passport printing issue.
Caretaker Interior Minister Sarfraz Bugti had reached out to the DG Passport, emphasizing the need for a prompt resolution to the passport printing problem. In response, the DG Passport confirmed that emergency measures were in progress to address the lamination paper shortage. The printing of passports is expected to recommence as soon as the necessary approvals for the papers are secured.
The shortage of lamination paper had led to a nationwide halt in the issuance of Pakistani passports, impacting countless citizens. Sources familiar with the situation revealed that Pakistani passport offices had been receiving a staggering 25,000 daily applications for renewal or new passport issuance. As a result of the paper shortage, the backlog of pending passport requests had surged to a staggering 500,000.
The imminent resumption of passport issuance is expected to bring relief to countless individuals who have been awaiting their travel documents. The Pakistani authorities are making concerted efforts to expedite the process and alleviate the backlog, ensuring that citizens can once again access their essential travel documentation.
Please note that the provided information is based on the most recent available data as of my knowledge cutoff date in September 2021. Be sure to verify any updates or developments related to this issue from current and reliable sources.