Chaudhry Anwarul Haq announces revised rates in Muzaffarabad

Muzaffarabad recently experienced significant progress as the AJK Prime Minister, Chaudhry Anwarul Haq, announced revised rates for essential commodities like electricity and flour. This decision came in response to violent protests in the region, leading to an agreement between the government and the Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee.

All demands presented by the committee were accepted, resulting in the restoration of internet services in the area. The government promptly issued a notification outlining the reduced prices for flour and the updated electricity rates to address the concerns raised by the protesters.

The revised rates now establish the price of flour at Rs2000 per maund. Regarding electricity, the rates have been set at Rs 3 per unit for consumption up to 100 units, Rs 5 per unit for consumption between 100 to 300 units, and Rs 6 per unit for consumption exceeding 300 units. Commercial electricity rates have been fixed at Rs 10 per unit for consumption up to 300 units and Rs 15 per unit for consumption above 300 units.

Earlier, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif allocated Rs23 billion to Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) in response to the recent clashes and protests in the region. The Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC), representing traders, had been advocating for fair electricity rates, subsidized flour, and an end to elite privileges.

The positive outcome of the negotiations between the government and the Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee reflects a step towards addressing the grievances of the people in Muzaffarabad. The revised rates for electricity and flour aim to provide relief to the residents and promote stability in the region. This development underscores the importance of dialogue and cooperation in resolving issues and fostering a harmonious environment for all.