The government of Pakistan has launched a new initiative to provide free passports to citizens living in Chaman, a border town near Afghanistan. This program is intended to help people who are unable to afford passports, especially after the government introduced a new rule requiring valid travel documents for border crossing. The free passport scheme will provide 5,000 citizens with the necessary documents, making it easier for them to travel across the border.
| Aspect | Details |
| Location | Chaman (border town near Afghanistan) |
| Target Group | 5,000 low-income citizens |
| Support Provided | Free passports and visas |
| Government’s Commitment | Helping citizens who cannot afford passports |
Contents
Program Launch and Details
The free passport scheme was officially launched by Quetta Commissioner Hamza Shafqaat, with other key figures such as Brigadier Shakeel Ahmed (FC Chaman Commandant) and Deputy Commissioner Habib Ahmad Bangalzai. The event also saw the participation of tribal elders and traders who helped distribute the passports to the local people. The government hopes this initiative will relieve the local community of the financial burden of passport fees and ease their ability to travel for work and trade across the border.
- The free passport scheme is aimed at helping the impoverished community.
- Local officials, including the Deputy Commissioner and Brigadier Shakeel Ahmed, were present at the launch event.
- Tribal elders and traders assisted in the distribution of the passports.
Financial Support and Visa Provision
In addition to providing free passports, the government is also covering the cost of visas for the poorest recipients. This will allow eligible citizens to travel across borders without the financial strain of obtaining a passport or visa. Brigadier Shakeel Ahmed emphasized the government’s commitment to ensuring no citizen is left behind. Those unable to afford passports will receive them free of charge, and this initiative seeks to promote equal access to travel opportunities for everyone.
- Free visas are also included for the most disadvantaged citizens.
- The government is covering passport fees for those who cannot afford them.
- This initiative aims to equalize access to travel for all citizens.
Economic Relief and Community Support
Alongside providing passports, the government has distributed Rs900 million to Chaman’s underprivileged population through the Benazir Income Support Program (BISP). This financial aid has helped the most impoverished families meet basic needs. Moreover, the government is planning to activate the Chaman Master Plan, which will bring in new employment opportunities and support long-term economic growth for the region. The BISP distribution and upcoming Master Plan are part of the government’s broader strategy to uplift the local community.
- Rs900 million has been distributed to the poorest citizens via BISP.
- The Chaman Master Plan will introduce new job opportunities for local residents.
- This combination of initiatives aims to provide both immediate relief and long-term solutions.
Addressing Border Issues
The Chaman border, being a vital crossing point between Pakistan and Afghanistan, has faced challenges due to the new one-document regime. This regime requires a valid passport for all border crossings, which has created difficulties for workers and traders who do not have passports. However, the free passport initiative will allow residents to continue traveling across the border for work and trade, without worrying about the high costs of passports.
- The one-document regime has increased demand for passports in Chaman.
- The free passport scheme will help citizens meet the new travel requirements.
- The initiative is a response to challenges faced by border residents due to travel restrictions.
Sustainable Solutions for Long-Term Growth
While the free passport scheme provides immediate relief, local residents are urging the government to focus on creating sustainable employment opportunities. This would reduce their dependence on cross-border work and strengthen the local economy. The Chaman Master Plan, which is currently in development, promises to create jobs and improve infrastructure, fostering economic growth in the region and reducing reliance on border travel for work.
- Residents urge the government to focus on creating local jobs to reduce reliance on cross-border work.
- The Chaman Master Plan is expected to bring new opportunities for employment.
- Sustainable economic development is a key goal for the region’s future.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the government’s free passport scheme for Chaman’s residents is a much-needed initiative that will ease the financial burden of obtaining travel documents for those who cannot afford them. Along with financial assistance from BISP and the development of the Chaman Master Plan, the government is taking steps to address both immediate and long-term challenges faced by the local population. While the passport initiative will help citizens meet the new border requirements, creating sustainable employment opportunities will be key to ensuring lasting economic growth and stability in the region.
Also Read: Apni Chat Apna Ghar Scheme 2024 Final Deadline for Applications
FAQs
Who is eligible for the free passport scheme in 2024-25?
The free passport scheme targets 5,000 low-income citizens in Chaman, especially those who cannot afford the passport fees.
What other benefits are offered under this scheme?
Along with the free passports, the poorest recipients will also receive free visas to facilitate their cross-border travel.
How is the government supporting the community beyond the passport program?
The government has already distributed Rs 900 million through the Benazir Income Support Program (BISP) and is working on the Chaman Master Plan to improve local employment and infrastructure.