Dastak Doorstep Services App Expands to 10 More Cities in Punjab
Introduction
The Punjab government’s Dastak – Doorstep Services app has recently expanded to reach 10 additional cities in the province, following a directive from Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz. The app, which was already operational in several major cities, is now available in 32 districts, including cities such as Rahim Yar Khan, Vehari, Lodhran, Toba Tek Singh, Layyah, Rajanpur, Nankana Sahib, Chiniot, Gujrat, and Khushab. This expansion is part of the government’s ongoing efforts to improve accessibility to essential services and provide convenience to the citizens of Punjab, particularly those who face challenges accessing government offices.
What is the Dastak App?
The Dastak Doorstep Services app, also known by the name Maryam ki Dastak, is a digital initiative designed to bring government services directly to citizens’ doorsteps. It offers a wide range of services, enabling users to request and receive government documents at home, without the need to physically visit government offices. This is particularly beneficial for individuals who face mobility challenges, such as senior citizens, women, and working professionals.
The app allows users to apply for essential documents such as birth certificates, death certificates, domicile certificates, marriage certificates, new motor vehicle registrations, e-stamping services, and many other important government services.
Recent Expansion to 10 More Cities
The recent expansion of the Dastak app to 10 new cities marks a significant step forward in the government’s plan to streamline and improve public service delivery. The new cities added to the app’s coverage include Rahim Yar Khan, Vehari, Lodhran, Toba Tek Singh, Layyah, Rajanpur, Nankana Sahib, Chiniot, Gujrat, and Khushab. This brings the total number of cities where the service is available to 32.
Impact of the Expansion
The expansion ensures that more citizens can benefit from this innovative service, reducing the burden on local government offices and allowing individuals to access services from the comfort of their homes. The app’s expanded reach will make it easier for people living in remote areas to receive their official documents, eliminating the need to travel long distances to government offices.
In addition, Maryam Nawaz, the Chief Minister, has emphasized the importance of utilizing technology to create a more efficient and citizen-centric public service. The expansion aligns with the government’s goal of promoting digital services and improving ease of access for all citizens.
How the Dastak App Works
The process for using the Dastak Doorstep Services app is simple and straightforward. Here’s how it works:
- Download the App: Users need to download the app from the Google Play Store or use the online platform to begin their request.
- Choose the Service: After logging in, users can choose the government services they wish to avail of. The services range from obtaining birth certificates to applying for motor vehicle registration.
- Request Collection: Once the desired service is selected, a government representative or third-party agent will visit the user’s address to collect the required documents. A fee of Rs. 1200 is charged for the collection service.
- Document Processing: The collected documents are processed by the relevant government departments.
- Document Delivery: Once the document is ready, it is delivered to the user’s home within nine days, providing a hassle-free experience.
This digital solution eliminates the need to stand in long queues or spend time navigating bureaucratic procedures at government offices, making it particularly beneficial for busy professionals, senior citizens, and those with mobility issues.
Addressing Citizen Concerns
While the expansion of the Dastak app is a significant achievement, it has not been without challenges. The app’s user ratings on the Google Play Store have been relatively low, with a rating of just 2.8 out of 5. The primary complaints from users include:
- High Service Fees: Many users have expressed concerns about the Rs. 1200 fee, which some feel is steep for the services provided.
- Limited Availability in Districts: Although the app has expanded to several cities, some users in areas where the app is technically available still face difficulties using the service due to logistical issues or lack of trained representatives.
Despite these concerns, the app’s expansion to 10 more cities is an important milestone. It demonstrates the government’s commitment to making public services more accessible and user-friendly through the use of technology.
Future Prospects
As the Dastak Doorstep Services app continues to expand, there are several possibilities for further improving its services:
- Lower Service Fees: The government may look into subsidizing fees for underprivileged citizens or offering discounted rates for frequent users.
- Better Infrastructure: The government could improve the infrastructure behind the app, including expanding the network of trained representatives and ensuring that all areas are covered efficiently.
- Feedback Mechanisms: The government can set up better feedback systems to address user complaints in real-time and make necessary improvements to the app.
The government’s efforts to increase accessibility through technology are commendable, and with continued investment and improvements, the Dastak app could become an essential tool for public service delivery in Pakistan.
FAQs
1. What services can I request through the Dastak app?
You can request various government services such as birth certificates, death certificates, domicile certificates, marriage certificates, motor vehicle registration, and e-stamping services.
2. How much does it cost to use the Dastak service?
The service costs Rs. 1200 for the collection and delivery of documents to your doorstep.
3. How long does it take to receive my documents?
After the documents are collected, they are processed, and you should receive them within nine days.
4. Which cities are now covered by the Dastak app?
The Dastak app is now available in 32 districts, including cities like Rahim Yar Khan, Vehari, Lodhran, Toba Tek Singh, Rajanpur, and many more.
5. How can I contact customer support if I have issues with the app?
You can contact customer support through the helpline number 1202 or leave feedback directly within the app.
Conclusion
The Dastak – Doorstep Services app is a game-changer in providing efficient government services to the citizens of Punjab. With its recent expansion to 10 new cities, it is poised to reach more citizens and offer them the convenience of receiving official documents at their doorstep. Though challenges remain, especially regarding service fees and app availability, the initiative reflects a step toward a more inclusive and efficient government service model that leverages technology to improve the lives of Pakistan’s citizens.
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