Slow speed of internet delays issuance of passports despite double fees

ISLAMABAD: Citizens attempting to obtain passports are facing significant challenges due to major delays in the issuance process, despite having paid substantial fees.

Reports from across the country indicate long queues and crowded passport offices. Frustration is mounting among applicants, many of whom have spent hours waiting without success, with some unable even to submit their applications.

The administration attributes the delays to a technical issue, citing that the computerized system is down due to an internet link failure. However, officials have not provided a clear timeline for resolving the issue, leaving applicants uncertain about when they will receive their passports.

Those who come to the offices expecting quick processing get stuck in a state of uncertainty, with no clear resolution in sight. Many citizens are concerned about how these delays will impact their travel plans, job opportunities, and other important commitments.

In an earlier decision, the Ministry of Interior submitted a summary to the cabinet to amend passport rules, allowing passports to be issued from any city. This amendment aims to facilitate citizens seeking to travel abroad for immigration, education, or employment purposes. The changes will take effect once approved by the cabinet.

In response to the passport printing crisis, authorities had announced plans to acquire new equipment, including 20 laminators, five modern Reprint Management Printers (RMPs), and two e-passport printers. These upgrades were intended to significantly enhance passport production capacity, enabling the issuance of up to 1,000 passports per hour. The daily printing capacity was expected to increase from 22,000 to approximately 55,000 passports.

To support this increased production, authorities ordered lamination paper stock for the next six months, aiming to clear the backlog and return operations to normal by the last week of September.