KP Excise Department's Grand Number Plate Auction Draws Enthusiastic Crowd in Peshawar
The Excise, Taxation and Narcotics Control Department of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government organized a highly successful auction of personalized marks, commonly known as choice number plates, on Tuesday at Nishtar Hall in Peshawar. The event was marked by overwhelming public interest and enthusiastic participation from bidders, showcasing a vibrant competitive spirit.
Record-Breaking Bids for Premium Number Plates
During the auction, the highest bid was recorded for the prestigious number plate “Wazir 1,” which was sold for an impressive Rs15 million. The second-highest bid was placed on “Afridi 1,” fetching Rs1 crore and 40 lakhs. This plate was acquired by Javed Afridi, the owner of Peshawar Zalmi, adding a notable sports connection to the event.
Meanwhile, “Khan 1” remained the third most prominent number plate, sold for Rs1 crore and 11 lakhs. It was secured by MPA Naik Muhammad Khan, highlighting political figures' interest in such personalized items.
Other Notable Sales and Auction Details
Among other significant sales, “Peshawar 1” was auctioned for Rs10 million, “Haripur 1” for Rs8 million, and “Yousafzai 1” for Rs49 lakhs and 20 thousands. Similarly, “Durrani 1” was sold for Rs16 lakhs and 60 thousands, “Malakand 1” for Rs12 lakhs and 50 thousands, while “Swabi 1” was auctioned for Rs12 lakhs.
The auction was conducted under a single-bidding mechanism, with the remaining choice number plates set to be offered through e-bidding in the future. This dual approach ensures broader accessibility and continued revenue generation.
Government Initiative and Future Plans
This innovative and people-friendly initiative forms part of the modern reform agenda of the Excise, Taxation and Narcotics Control Department. It is being implemented in line with the vision of founder chairman Imran Khan, under the leadership of Chief Minister Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Muhammad Sohail Afridi, and with the patronage of Provincial Minister for Excise, Taxation and Narcotics Control Syed Fakhar Jahan.
The auction featured personalized, tribal, political, and region-based choice number plates, which attracted special attention from bidders. This diversity is expected to generate substantial revenue for the provincial exchequer, supporting public services and development projects.
Minister's Remarks and Public Engagement
Speaking on the occasion, Minister Syed Fakhar Jehan termed the choice number plates initiative a unique and citizen-centric project. He stated that, by the grace of Allah, it proved highly successful due to overwhelming public interest. The minister congratulated the successful bidders and announced that, in response to public demand, more personalized choice number plates will be offered through e-bidding in the future.
He informed that interested citizens may submit their requests for desired names and marks either through the Dastak App or by submitting applications to the Director General Excise. This move aims to enhance transparency and modernization in government processes.
The minister reaffirmed that the department will continue to introduce such initiatives aimed at public facilitation, transparency, and modernization, ensuring that services are aligned with contemporary needs.
Ceremony Attendance and Departmental Commitment
The auction ceremony was attended by Director General Excise, Taxation and Narcotics Control Abdul Haleem Khan, along with other senior officials of the department. Their presence underscored the government's commitment to this reformative effort.
The vibrant public participation and competitive bidding process clearly highlighted the success of this unique initiative, setting a precedent for future auctions and similar projects across the province.
