Punjab Chief Minister Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif has said that provision of quality essential items to the people at govt fixed rates is the responsibility of the government which will be fulfilled at any cost. He was talking to consumers during his visit to different Itwar Bazaars in the provincial metropolis, here on Sunday.
He paid a surprise visit to Model Bazaar Township without any protocol and enquired from the people individually about the quality and prices of essential items. The people informed the Chief Minister that edibles were available to them at the fixed rates during Ramazan. However, this process should also continue after the holy month.
They questioned why those shopkeepers who can provide essential commodities at the fixed rates during Ramazan cannot do so throughout the year? The Chief Minister said that the Punjab government wants to provide such an environment to the people, especially to women, for purchasing daily use items as is available in the developed countries, and Model Bazaars are an important step in this direction. He said that besides Ramazan Bazaars and Itwar Bazaars, the government has also taken various measures for the supply of essential commodities to the people at reasonable rates. He said that government will deal with hoarders and profiteers with an iron hand and they would face punishment both in this world and the world hereafter.
In response to the request of the people, the Chief Minister announced abolishment of the parking fee in all Model Bazaars including that of Lahore. He further announced that shopkeepers will be allowed to keep their business open till 10.00 p.m during Ramazan for the benefit of the fasting people.
Later, talking to media the Chief Minister announced that a number of Model Bazaars are being established in various cities of the province this year where for the first time in Pakistan availability of quality essential items to the people under a clean environment will be ensured.