Pakistan has reduced the number of official blue passports from 74,000 to 49,000, marking a significant change in the country’s passport issuance system.
Director General of Immigration and Passports Muhammad Ali Randhawa shared the figures during a meeting with Senate Deputy Chairman Syedaal Khan Nasar on Wednesday.
He said the reduction was made in line with international obligations and administrative requirements. The meeting also reviewed passport issuance procedures, institutional performance, security features and public facilities.
Blue Passports Reduced by 25,000
The latest figures show a reduction of 25,000 official passports. However, officials did not provide further details about the categories affected or the specific reasons behind individual cancellations or reductions.
The meeting also focused on strengthening passport security and improving the country’s international ranking.
Officials discussed a proposal to introduce passport issuance facilities through the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) in the near future. The initiative is expected to support improvements in the system.
NADRA Role and Digital Reforms Under Discussion
Senate Deputy Chairman Nasar appreciated the efforts to modernise passport services. He stressed that technology and automation should be used at every stage, from application submission to passport delivery.
He said digital systems could make the process faster, more transparent and accessible for citizens.
Nasar also highlighted the need to prevent unnecessary delays and lengthy waiting periods. He called for an effective mechanism to resolve public complaints promptly.
Public Relief and Economic Concerns
During separate meetings, Nasar also met tribal elders, lawyers, students and civil society representatives. They discussed public concerns and the prevailing political situation.
He briefed the delegations on government measures concerning economic growth, inflation control and public relief.
Nasar also referred to recent fuel price reductions, expressing hope that lower fuel costs would eventually bring down prices of other commodities.
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