Latest Update: Govt Launches Free Passport Scheme

Free Passport Scheme

The government of Pakistan has introduced a new initiative to provide free passports to 5,000 local citizens residing in the Chaman area, which lies along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border. This program is part of the government’s efforts to support poor and laboring individuals who are affected by the one-document regime recently implemented at the Pak-Afghan border.

The one-document regime requires travelers to possess valid travel documentation for crossing the border, which has posed challenges for many residents in the region. By offering free passports, the government aims to alleviate the financial burden on these individuals and ensure they can comply with the new regulations without facing additional hardships.

Purpose of the Free Passport Scheme

The primary goal of the free passport scheme is to assist those who are economically disadvantaged and rely on cross-border movement for their livelihood. Many people in the Chaman area engage in trade and labor across the border, and the new one-document regime has made it difficult for them to continue their activities without proper documentation.

By providing free passports, the government ensures that these individuals can obtain the necessary travel documents without incurring the cost, thereby helping them maintain their sources of income. Additionally, the scheme is designed to promote legal and organized movement across the border, enhancing security and reducing the chances of illegal activities.

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Inauguration and Implementation

  • Quetta Commissioner Hamza Shafqaat
  • FC Chaman Commandant Brig Shakeel Ahmed
  • Tribal elders and local traders attended the ceremony, showing community involvement.
  • Free passports were distributed to beneficiaries, officially starting the program.
  • Brig Shakeel Ahmed highlighted the government’s consistent border policies to support citizens and maintain security.

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Benefits to the Local Community

This initiative has had a significant positive impact on the local community in Chaman. Over 5,000 citizens will receive free passports, enabling them to travel legally and pursue employment opportunities beyond the border. Additionally, the government has allocated Rs900 million through the Benazir Income Support Programme to support the poor and needy in the area. This financial assistance will help improve the living conditions of many families, providing them with much-needed resources to meet their daily needs. Furthermore, the Chaman master plan, which is set to be activated soon, promises to create more job opportunities, reducing the community’s reliance on cross-border labor and fostering local economic growth.

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Addressing Challenges at the Border

The Chaman border has long been a critical point of entry between Pakistan and Afghanistan, but it has also faced numerous challenges, including security issues and economic instability. The implementation of the one-document regime was a necessary step to enhance border security and ensure that only individuals with proper documentation can cross. However, this change has led to an increased demand for passports, which many local residents were unable to afford.

By launching the free passport scheme, the government is addressing this challenge head-on, ensuring that the residents can comply with the new regulations without facing undue financial stress. This proactive approach helps maintain order and security while supporting the livelihoods of the people in Chaman.

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Employment Opportunities

Looking ahead, the government has outlined several plans to further support the residents of Chaman. The activation of the Chaman master plan is a key component of these efforts, aimed at creating sustainable employment opportunities within the region. By developing infrastructure and promoting local industries, the government intends to reduce the community’s dependence on cross-border labor and foster economic self-sufficiency.

Additionally, the distribution of free visas to those who receive free passports will further facilitate legal travel and employment opportunities. These comprehensive measures demonstrate the government’s commitment to not only addressing immediate needs but also ensuring long-term stability and prosperity for the people of Chaman.

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Conclusion

The launch of the free passport scheme by the Pakistani government marks a significant step towards supporting the residents of the Chaman area along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border. By providing free passports to 5,000 local citizens, the government is addressing the financial barriers that hinder many individuals from complying with the new one-document regime. This initiative, coupled with financial assistance through the Benazir Income Support Programme and the upcoming Chaman master plan, aims to improve the livelihoods of the community and promote economic growth. By focusing on both immediate relief and long-term development, the government is ensuring that the people of Chaman can navigate the challenges posed by border regulations while building a more secure and prosperous future.

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