Muzaffargarh administration moves to ease regulatory hurdles for businesses

MUZAFFARGARH: Deputy Commissioner Usman Tahir Jappa has directed government departments to create a transparent and business-friendly regulatory environment for commercial and industrial activities in the district.

He issued the directions during a meeting that reviewed measures to facilitate businesses, improve regulatory procedures, control prices and finalise arrangements for the 11th Thal Desert Jeep Rally 2026.

The deputy commissioner instructed regulatory departments to coordinate their activities and avoid creating unnecessary hurdles for business owners and industrialists. He said authorities should focus initially on guidance and counselling to help businesses understand relevant laws, standard operating procedures and regulatory requirements.

Jappa directed that no business or industrial unit should be sealed without first informing the deputy commissioner. He said the matter would subsequently be brought to the attention of the Punjab chief secretary where necessary.

He also ordered departments to process applications for No Objection Certificates (NOCs) for new businesses and industrial units on a priority basis. Officials were directed to complete the process within the prescribed timeframe so that unnecessary delays do not discourage investment and commercial activity.

To reduce the burden on businesses, the deputy commissioner called for regulatory inspections by different departments to be coordinated and conducted on the same day wherever possible. Industrial units should also be informed in advance so they can keep the required records available and ensure the presence of relevant staff.

Jappa directed the Punjab Food Authority, PERA Force, Agriculture Department, building inspectors and other regulatory bodies to conduct inspections and enforcement operations strictly according to the law and approved SOPs. He stressed that enforcement should not result in unnecessary difficulties for the business community.

The meeting also focused on improving the complaint-resolution system. Officials were instructed to ensure that complaints are properly registered, forwarded to the relevant departments and resolved within the required timeframe.

The deputy commissioner further called for stronger engagement with the business and industrial community and greater use of digital services. He directed officials to make regulatory procedures and SOPs easily accessible through the E-Biz platform and QR codes.

The meeting also reviewed preparations for the 11th Thal Desert Rally, scheduled for November 5 to 8, 2026, across Muzaffargarh, Kot Addu and Layyah. At the Changa Manga Tila site in Muzaffargarh, arrangements include a facilitation centre, track preparation, parking, food court, security, sanitation, water supply, ambulance services, fire brigade support and first-aid facilities.

Officials also reviewed the district’s price-control measures. The prices of essential commodities and vegetables were compared with rates in other districts, while authorities discussed steps to ensure consumers receive goods at officially fixed prices.

Senior district officials and heads of relevant departments attended the meeting and briefed the deputy commissioner on progress and departmental arrangements.