Ahead of Ramadan, the Punjab government has turned 74 Sahulat Bazaars into fully operational Ramazan Bazaars to offer essential food items at lower prices. The move aims to help families manage household expenses during the holy month by providing 16 key items, including flour and sugar, at subsidized rates. The bazaars began operations on February 14 and are being closely monitored for efficiency and fairness.
The Punjab Sahulat Bazaars Authority, under the supervision of Chairman Afzal Khokhar, has coordinated preparations to ensure the markets are ready for public use. Director General Naveed Rafaqat conducted surprise inspections in Lahore and Ferozewala, checking cleanliness, security, and functionality of CCTV systems, while also ensuring prices follow the official subsidy scheme.
A 10-kilogram bag of flour is being sold at Rs 850, and sugar at Rs 140 per kilogram, prices up to 10 percent below district administration rates. Consumers can pay using ration cards or Ramazan Nigehban cards.
Additionally, a free home delivery service within five kilometers has been introduced, making the initiative more accessible to senior citizens and vulnerable communities. Senior Citizen Camps are also being considered to provide a comfortable shopping experience for the elderly.
Staff leave across Punjab has been suspended for the duration of the initiative, and senior officers are conducting frequent field visits to maintain smooth operations. A provincial control room has been set up to monitor the bazaars round the clock and address public complaints immediately.