Steps Taken to Deal With Long Delays in Passport Printing
In response to a surge in complaints regarding extensive delays in passport printing, Federal Ombudsman Ejaz Ahmed Qureshi has taken decisive action to address the issue. Individuals facing obstacles in obtaining their passports have lodged numerous grievances against the passport office, prompting the Federal Ombudsman to intervene and initiate necessary measures.
The Federal Ombudsman, serving as a crucial avenue for addressing concerns with government organizations, has proactively set up an inspection team to investigate the root causes of the reported delays. Spearheaded by a senior advisor, the team will conduct a thorough examination of the Directorate General of Passport office, aiming to identify the reasons behind the delays and recommend corrective actions.
This initiative is not only limited to an internal assessment but also involves direct engagement with complainants on-site. Team members will actively listen to the concerns raised by individuals and engage in discussions with the administration of the Directorate General of Passport. This collaborative approach ensures a comprehensive understanding of the challenges faced by the public and facilitates the formulation of effective solutions.
Complainants approaching the Federal Ombudsman Office have highlighted significant difficulties, including cases involving passport renewal and expedited processing fees. Shockingly, reports indicate that an alarming backlog of approximately 400,000 passports awaits processing within the Directorate. This situation has led to an unprecedented delay in passport delivery times, particularly affecting major cities across Pakistan.
Recent developments reveal that the Directorate General of Passport continues to grapple with challenges, particularly in recovering from a shortage of lamination paper. Despite acquiring the necessary supplies, the department has struggled to clear the backlog, resulting in an extension of passport delivery times by up to 3 months in major urban centers.
The proactive measures taken by the Federal Ombudsman demonstrate a commitment to addressing citizens' concerns and streamlining passport issuance processes. As investigations unfold and corrective actions are proposed, it is anticipated that these efforts will alleviate the burdens faced by individuals awaiting passport issuance, ultimately contributing to improved service efficiency within the Directorate General of Passport.
