Passport Issuance Backlog Resolved in Major Cities

In recent times, the passport issuance process in Pakistan has faced significant challenges, leading to a backlog that affected many citizens. The Directorate General of Immigration and Passports has been under pressure to resolve these issues, which were primarily caused by limited printing resources and an overwhelming number of applications. With the increasing need for international travel, the situation became critical, prompting the authorities to take immediate action.

Mustafa Jamal Qazi, the Director General of Immigration and Passports, has announced that the backlog of passport issuance in major cities has now been cleared. In a recent statement, he expressed his gratitude to the citizens for their patience and cooperation during this challenging period. He acknowledged that while the offices were processing around 65,000 passport applications daily, only 23,000 could be printed due to resource constraints. This discrepancy led to delays that frustrated many applicants.

Fortunately, the situation is set to improve significantly. New printers are expected to arrive within a month, which will help normalize the passport issuance process. The authorities have prioritized applications from individuals who travel internationally frequently, ensuring that those who need their passports urgently are accommodated first.

Moreover, the issues surrounding online applications from overseas Pakistanis have also been addressed. Over 24,000 passports have already been delivered to applicants living abroad, marking a significant step forward in improving service delivery. With the major urban centers now cleared of backlogs, the focus will shift to smaller cities, where similar issues may still exist.

It is important to note that the delays were not solely due to printing issues. The ongoing revamping of office facilities and the implementation of a new dashboard system have also contributed to the slow processing times. These upgrades are expected to enhance the overall efficiency of the passport issuance process in the long run.

While the recent challenges in passport issuance have caused inconvenience for many, the steps being taken by the Directorate General of Immigration and Passports are promising. With new resources on the way and a commitment to improving services, citizens can look forward to a more streamlined process in the near future. It is essential for the authorities to maintain this momentum and ensure that all applicants, regardless of their location, receive timely and efficient service.