Pakistan launches passport overhaul initiative to clear 800K application backlog
Systemic corruption and inefficiencies have plagued passport offices for years, contributing significantly to the current backlog
Islamabad: To address the extensive backlog of over 800,000 passports awaiting processing nationwide, Pakistan's Ministry of Finance has allocated funds for urgent intervention.
This development comes amidst growing concerns over delays in passport issuance, impacting thousands of applicants across the country.
The government has initiated international tenders to acquire new printing and e-passport machines. Additionally, procurement efforts are underway for lamination papers crucial for passport production. These steps are expected to streamline the process and expedite the clearance of the existing backlog.
Officials from the passport and immigration departments revealed that the current daily production capacity stands at 20,000 to 25,000 passports. Meanwhile, the offices are inundated with 40,000 to 45,000 new applications daily, underscoring the scale of the challenge.
Getting passport without bribe
The move to address the backlog follows recent actions taken by Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, who suspended two senior officials from the Lahore Passport Office due to widespread reports of corruption.
Applicants reported to the minister that obtaining a passport without paying bribes was impossible, highlighting systemic issues within the office.
The government's allocation of funds is part of a broader initiative to modernize passport infrastructure to meet increasing demands. This includes efforts to improve efficiency, transparency, and integrity within passport issuance processes.
Corruption
Critics argue that systemic corruption and inefficiencies have plagued passport offices for years, contributing significantly to the current backlog. Investigations have revealed instances of forged documents, unauthorized issuance of passports, and extortion.
The ministry has also emphasized the importance of enhancing digital capabilities and adopting best practices from other countries to ensure timely and secure passport services.