KARACHI: Despite clear instructions by the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) chairman to adopt Urdu as an official language, there exists not a single signboard or nameplate in Urdu at the Customs House while the official are confused about this proposal, it is learnt.
It may be mentioned here that the FBR has decided to take steps in order to use Urdu as the official language in its routine matters, while the FBR’s Board-in-Council has also granted permission in this regard.
The official sources told Customs Today that it was very difficult for the management to introduce Urdu because the officials as well as the importers and clearing agents would become confused if Urdu signboards were installed.
“For instance, a grade-20 officer came out of his office and talked to the staff about Urdu signboards and nameplates. A lower staff asked what is the Urdu of washroom?” sources quoted the incident in a lighter vein.
The sources also questioned about the proper Urdu of adjudication collectorates, internal audit, customs valuation, reforms and automation, Appraising Intelligence Branch/Research and Development, Post Clearance Audit, Model Customs Collectorates Appraisement East and West, MCC Exports etc.
The sources opined that the importers and clearing agents had been made used to of the present system as they all were familiar with the terminologies. And, if the system is changed to Urdu, everything would surely become confusing for those visiting the Custom House, sources concluded as saying.
