Many Pakistanis are finding it increasingly difficult to obtain passports on time, causing distress and frustration among citizens. The main reason for this is the delay in printing passports, as reported on various social media platforms.
However, the authorities have taken notice of the issue and the finance ministry has released funds to help clear the backlog. At present, there is a backlog of more than 800,000 passports awaiting printing, but this is expected to be resolved soon once the purchase of passport machinery and lamination paper is completed.
Officials from the passport and immigration department have reported that they are currently printing between 20,000 to 25,000 passports per day while receiving 40,000 to 45,000 passport requests daily. Additionally, an international tender has been issued for the purchase of printing and e-passport machines, and an advertisement for the tenders of lamination papers is also ongoing.
