The Punjab government has transformed 74 Sahulat Bazaars into fully functional Ramazan Bazaars across the province to provide relief to consumers through subsidized essential items starting February 14.
The move was carried out on the instructions of the chief minister, with the Punjab Sahulat Bazaars Authority overseeing preparations to ensure smooth operations.
Authority Chairman Afzal Khokhar supervised the overall arrangements to make sure the bazaars were ready to serve the public ahead of Ramadan.
On Sunday, Authority Director General Naveed Rafaqat conducted surprise inspections of several Ramazan Bazaars in Lahore and Ferozewala to assess administrative efficiency.
Markets in Township, Madina Market, Madar-i-Millat, Nishtar Colony, Barki, Shahdara and Ferozewala were visited, where officials reviewed cleanliness standards, security measures, quality control, and the functionality of CCTV surveillance systems.
Officials said that 16 essential food items are being offered at prices up to 10 per cent below the rates set by district administrations. Under the scheme, a 10-kilogram bag of flour is available for Rs. 850, while sugar is being sold at Rs. 140 per kilogram.
To maintain oversight, a provincial control room has been established for round-the-clock monitoring of all Ramazan Bazaars and for addressing public complaints promptly.
Leaves of staff members across Punjab have been suspended for the duration of the initiative, while senior officers have been instructed to carry out frequent field visits to ensure compliance with operational standards.
Shoppers can purchase subsidized goods using ration cards and Ramazan Nigehban cards. In addition, a free home delivery service within a five-kilometre radius has been introduced to improve access, particularly for vulnerable groups. Authorities are also reviewing the setup of Senior Citizen Camps across the province to provide dedicated facilities for elderly customers.
“The initiative demonstrates the provincial government’s commitment to affordability, transparency and efficient service delivery during Ramadan,” DG Naveed Rafaqat said.