LAHORE: The government has mandated vendors in all Ramazan bazaars of Lahore to reduce the prices of chicken meat, mutton, and beef by Rs15 per kilogramme below the rates set by market committees.

Simultaneously, a crackdown on unjustified profiteering, hoarding, and artificial shortages has been started in the city, resulting in fines exceeding Rs866,000 on Monday alone.

During a meeting to evaluate the functioning of Ramazan bazaars, price control measures, and other civic issues, Lahore Commissioner Muhammad Ali Randhawa announced the Rs15 discount on chicken, as per instruction of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz. He said the availability and quality of all items must be ensured in all bazaars. Besides this, the deputy commissioners must ensure carrying out strict checking of the prices of fruits and vegetables in open markets.

Later, while visiting Wahdat Road bazaar, he checked quality, supply and price of fruits and vegetables at agriculture fair price shop in the bazaar.

Agriculture and livestock fair shops have been established in all 10 Ramazan/model bazaars of Lahore.

In another meeting, it was told that Nigahban Ramzan package has so far been provided to 198,000 families in Lahore division.

After complete verification, the Ramzan package has been provided to the doorsteps of 99,000 beneficiaries in Lahore city alone.

LDA: Lahore Development Authority (LDA) Director General Tahir Farooq expressed dissatisfaction over the absence and tardiness of officers and staff during a morning visit to various LDA offices.

He warned of impending action against all absent staff and latecomers.

NTDC: To ensure uninterrupted power supply during Ramazan, especially during Sehr, Iftar, and Taraweeh prayers, the National Transmission and Despatch Company Limited (NTDC) has completed preparations.

A central control room has been established to maintain close coordination with the National Power Control Center, and all Distribution Companies will operate round the clock, according to an NTDC spokesman.

Published in Dawn, March 12th, 2024