LAHORE: The Punjab government has converted 74 Sahulat Bazaars into fully operational Ramazan Bazaars to facilitate citizens with subsidised essential commodities across the province from Feb 14.

The initiative was undertaken on the directives of the chief minister. Punjab Sahulat Bazaars Authority chairman Afzal Khokhar supervised the arrangements for the functioning of the Ramazan Bazaars.

Punjab Sahulat Bazaars Authority director-general Naveed Rafaqat on Sunday conducted surprise visits to multiple bazaars, including those in Lahore and Ferozewala to review administrative measures. Bazaars in Township, Madina Market, Madar-i-Millat, Nishtar Colony, Barki, Shahdara and Ferozewala were inspected to ensure quality control, cleanliness, security arrangements, and CCTV monitoring systems are fully functional.

According to officials concerned, as many as 16 essential commodities are being provided at prices up to 10 per cent lower than DC rates. A 10kg flour bag is available at Rs850, while sugar is being sold at Rs140 per kilogram.

A provincial control room has been established to ensure continuous monitoring of all Ramazan Bazaars and to facilitate prompt redressal of public complaints. Leaves of staff across Punjab have been cancelled, and senior officers have been directed to conduct regular field inspections to maintain operational standards.

Citizens can purchase items through ration cards and Ramazan Nigehban cards. Additionally, free home delivery within a five-kilometer radius has been introduced to enhance accessibility. Special Senior Citizen Camps are also being reviewed province-wide to provide dedicated facilities for elderly shoppers. “The initiative reflects the provincial government’s commitment to ensuring affordability, transparency, and effective service delivery during Ramadan,” Mr Rafaqat said.

Published in Dawn, February 16th, 2026