Metro53 - Jhelum (Web Desk): Cement has reportedly become scarce in Jhelum due to an alleged self-created crisis by cement agency owners. As a result, the construction sector is facing severe pressure, while citizens are encountering serious difficulties.
Artificial Shortage and Black Marketing
According to sources, cement agency owners have deliberately restricted supply with the alleged intention of profiteering. Due to the shortage of cement in the market, black marketing is openly underway.
Reports indicate that up to Rs 200 extra per cement bag is being charged. Buyers, left with no alternative, are being forced to pay inflated prices. Despite this situation, no effective action has yet been taken by the district administration.
Construction Activities Severely Affected
Across the district, the demand for cement remains normal; however, supply is being intentionally kept low. Taking advantage of this situation, certain dealers and agencies are charging arbitrary prices.
Individuals associated with the construction sector state that this illegal price hike has severely impacted ongoing projects. Construction work has come to a complete halt at several locations. Contractors are suffering financial losses, while daily wage laborers are also being adversely affected.
Negative Impact on Development Projects
According to affected parties, if the situation continues, both public and private development projects may face serious delays. For ordinary citizens, home construction has already become expensive, and the cement shortage has further aggravated their problems.
Citizens allege that agency owners are exploiting the inattention of the administration. They claim that those involved in black marketing no longer fear the law.
Demand for Action from Punjab Chief Minister
People associated with the construction sector and various citizen groups have demanded strict legal and criminal action against cement agencies and dealers.
They have called for those responsible for creating the artificial shortage to be brought to justice and for an end to the alleged lawlessness prevailing across the district. According to citizens, only immediate and decisive measures can ensure the restoration of construction activities and provide relief to the public.
