Pakistan Post in the red as losses hit Rs12bn

Mettis Global reports that Pakistan Post faces an annual loss of about Rs12bn, a figure that could reach Rs18 to 19bn if pension expenses are counted. The government is drafting a policy to reduce the department's expenses, which may involve cutting staff or privatising the service.

Communications Minister Abdul Aleem Khan told the Senate on Tuesday that a detailed plan will come before the House later, answering a question from Senator Shahadat Awan. The remarks were first reported by APP. Pakistan Post operates 9,707 units nationwide, made up of 2,887 departmental post offices, 6,735 extra-departmental offices and 85 formations.

A provincial breakdown recorded a staff strength of 15,051, yet the minister put the current headcount at around 22,000 employees. He said wages make up a large portion of costs, with recruitment following provincial quotas set by prescribed criteria.