LAHORE: The deputy commissioner (DC) on Wednesday intensified his efforts to ensure fair pricing and availability of essential commodities during Ramazan.

Provincial Health Minister Khwaja Imran Nazir visited Ramazan relief markets at China Scheme to oversee price control and commodity availability, marking a proactive approach to consumer protection.

The administrative team, led by DC Syed Musa Raza, has implemented a comprehensive strategy to combat price gouging and ensure market stability.

Strict enforcement measures have resulted in significant outcomes, with authorities taking decisive action against violations across 225 locations.

The crackdown has yielded tangible results, including Registration of two legal cases, issuance of 440 warnings, imposition of fines exceeding Rs200,000, and comprehensive inspections to maintain market integrity.

DC Raza emphasised that price control magistrates remain actively engaged in field operations, leaving no room for exploitation of citizens. “We will not tolerate any attempts to overcharge or deceive the public.”

The provincial health minister’s personal inspection of Ramzan Relief Markets highlights the government’s top-level involvement in ensuring market fairness.

He said special attention should be given to ensure the quality and availability of essential items at convenience stalls.

The ongoing initiative demonstrates a multi-tiered approach to market regulation, combining high-level oversight, active field monitoring, and stringent legal enforcement.

Earlier, DC Raza held meeting with representatives from multiple banking institutions to develop a comprehensive financial relief package. The high-level consultation brought together top executives from prominent banks, including Omni, Al-Falah, Bank of Punjab, Habib Bank Limited, and United Bank Limited.

The DC objected to the practice of levying Rs1,000 in taxes during payment processes and issued clear directives to ensure maximum transparency and citizen benefit. He stated that citizens should be exempt from taxes on Ramadan package payments.

Published in Dawn, March 6th, 2025