LAHORE: The Punjab government has decided to establish 13 more model bazaars in different cities to accelerate public welfare by offering essential commodities at prices lower than government-notified (DC) rates.

At present, 36 model bazaars are functional in 24 districts across the province. The new model bazaars are to be set up in Muzaffargarh, Mandi Bahauddin, Okara, Narowal, Chiniot, Khanewal, Chunian, Pattoki, Wazirabad, Sharaqpur, Bhalwal, Jhelum and Jaranwala.

Chairing a meeting for the establishment of model bazaars, Punjab industries secretary Ehsan Bhutta said the government had transferred land for the new facilities free of cost and instructed model bazaars’ Chief Executive Officer Naveed Rafaqat to fast-track all formalities and initiate construction of 13 new model bazaars.

The secretary said the model bazaar facilities were a key source of relief for the general public, providing essential goods at prices lower than government-notified rates. He directed the CEO to personally oversee the process, ensuring that all necessary steps were completed as per the government’s instructions.

“This project is a priority for the government, and we aim to establish these model bazaars at the earliest to benefit the public,” he stated. Mr Bhutta also called for an urgent submission of the summary to kick-start the approval process.

The model bazaars are not just markets but economic engines, transforming lives and communities by creating sustainable, inclusive growth across the province.

Model Bazaars’ CEO Naveed Rafaqat said estimates for 10 of the new bazaars had already been technically vetted by the chief engineer of the communication and works department.

“We are fully prepared and committed to launching the construction process at the earliest. All technical assessments and groundwork have been meticulously completed, ensuring there are no delays once we receive the green light,” he said.

Mr Rafaqat said the model bazaars would serve as a game-changer for small businesses and entrepreneurs to thrive and provide millions of people with access to affordable, essential goods in a safe and secure environment. He said these facilities would also create jobs and boost local economies to create a sustainable economic cycle in Punjab.

The CEO said the existing 36 model bazaars were fully operational across 24 districts in Punjab, attracting footfall of over 60 million visitors annually. He said the bazaars had become indispensable as they were also empowering small businesses with startup capital as low as Rs25,000. The model bazaars were providing them with essential services such as free limited electricity, cleaning, and round-the-clock foolproof security, ensuring that they could focus solely on scaling their businesses.

He said the upcoming bazaars would follow the same model, making it easier for families to access essential commodities under one roof.

Published in Dawn, October 3rd, 2024