DOHA: The Supply Department of the Central Tenders Committee at the Ministry of Business and Trade is witnessing huge rush of citizens seeking the smart cards for purchase of the subsidised food items.
The new cards that replace the paper coupons have become functional from October 1. A number of designated shopping outlets across the country have started distributing the subsided items using the smart cards.
The Ministry has so far distributed 60 percent of the cards, a local Arabic daily reported yesterday. A total of 40,000 citizens will receive the cards.
The ration system is intended to provide the citizens with essential items including rice, sugar, milk and edible oil at highly subsidised prices. There are 40 authorised distributors across the country besides 18 Al Meera branches selling the ration food items.
A family with three or less members will get 40kg bag of rice at QR65 and 25kg bag of sugar at QR25. A family with four members or less will get a carton of canned milk with 96 pieces at QR96.
The cards come with secure electronic chips that can prevent misuse by a second person. The dedicated shops are provided with special electronic machines for using the cards. The Supply Department has installed 65 electronic machines at several shopping outlets.
The cards will also help the authorities to properly assess the stocks and replenish them if there is any shortage.
The Peninsula
