In a significant move, the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) government has decided to create a new regulatory force, modeled after the police. The decision is aimed at enhancing the enforcement of various regulatory laws across the province. A draft bill for the establishment of the force has already been introduced in the provincial assembly.

Purpose of the New Regulatory Force

The primary goal behind the establishment of the new regulatory force is to ensure strict compliance with a variety of laws and regulations. This includes laws related to environmental protection, price control, food safety, construction violations, and more. The new force will act as a specialized unit responsible for monitoring and enforcing regulations that are currently under the purview of various government departments.

Key Responsibilities and Focus Areas

The newly proposed regulatory force will focus on the enforcement of 19 different regulations. These include:

  • Environmental Protection: Ensuring that local industries and individuals comply with environmental guidelines.
  • Price Control: Monitoring prices in the market to prevent exploitation of consumers.
  • Food Safety: Conducting inspections to guarantee food products meet safety standards.
  • Construction Violations: Addressing illegal construction and encroachment on public land.
  • Fertilizer and Chemical Control: Ensuring that fertilizer usage is in line with legal and environmental standards.

The force will also be responsible for monitoring other acts such as the Canal and Drainage Act and the Electricity Act. By enforcing these regulations, the KP government aims to improve the overall quality of life for its citizens and promote adherence to legal frameworks.

Structure of the Regulatory Force

This new regulatory force will be well-equipped to handle its tasks with a dedicated structure. Each district in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa will have its own unit of the regulatory force. The force will operate with its own police stations and distinctive uniforms, ensuring clear recognition and authority on the ground.

Moreover, the force will not only involve fresh recruits but also integrate existing personnel from the police force and the Levies. This hybrid approach is expected to ensure that the new force benefits from both experienced law enforcement officials and fresh talent.

Head Office in Peshawar

The central headquarters of the regulatory force will be established in Peshawar, the capital city of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. This will serve as the operational hub from which all decisions and strategies related to the force will be managed. With a dedicated office in each district, the new regulatory force will be fully equipped to handle regional challenges and enforce local regulations effectively.

Public Response and Future Prospects

The creation of a specialized regulatory force is expected to bring much-needed focus to the enforcement of laws that directly impact the everyday lives of citizens. By streamlining regulatory oversight and ensuring that violators are held accountable, the KP government aims to foster a safer and more orderly environment for businesses, consumers, and the general public.

While the initiative has received mixed reactions, with some applauding the government’s efforts to curb violations and improve regulatory compliance, others are questioning its implications for the existing law enforcement structure. Nonetheless, the establishment of the regulatory force is a clear sign of the government’s determination to address governance challenges head-on.

Conclusion: A New Chapter in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Governance

The creation of this new regulatory force marks a bold step by the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government toward improving law enforcement and regulatory oversight in the province. By focusing on critical areas such as environmental protection, food safety, and price control, the force will play a crucial role in creating a better regulatory framework. With dedicated personnel, a structured approach, and a focus on enforcement, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is set to take significant strides toward improved governance and accountability.