Pakistanis are currently unable to obtain new passports due to a shortage of lamination paper in the country. This is because the essential material, which is imported from France, is scarce. This has led to a nationwide shortage of travel documents, creating difficulties for citizens in need of new passports.
The shortage is having a significant impact on people’s plans and aspirations. For example, Zain Ijaz, a student from Gujrat, Pakistan, who secured admission to a university in the UK, is now unable to travel due to the lack of a valid passport.
The government of Pakistan is working to resolve the issue and has announced that it is in talks with French suppliers to secure more lamination paper. However, it is unclear when the shortage will be resolved.
The news of the passport shortage has been met with frustration and anger from Pakistani citizens. Many people have criticized the government for failing to anticipate and address the issue sooner.
The shortage is also a reminder of Pakistan’s reliance on imports for essential goods. The country is facing a number of economic challenges, including high inflation and a depreciating currency. The passport shortage is just one more example of the challenges that Pakistanis are facing.
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