Daily Times

The Punjab Government has allocated Rs 3.433 billion to extend its network of Model Bazaars, expanding access to affordable essentials across 13 new cities. This expansion supports the government’s ongoing commitment to affordable public services and economic empowerment. These markets will not only provide essential goods at rates below the standard market prices but also create an accessible, low-cost platform for small businesses, aiding economic resilience at the grassroots level.

Initially, the Punjab Model Bazaars Management Company (PMBMC) aimed to set up markets in ten cities with a budget of Rs. 2.5 billion. However, a strategic review led to an expansion to 13 cities, increasing the funding to Rs. 3.433 billion. This boost in funding underscores the government’s confidence in Model Bazaars as a reliable solution for price relief and economic support.

Punjab currently operates 36 Model Bazaars across 24 districts, including ten in Lahore. These markets provide more than affordable shopping; they offer a well-organised, clean environment where goods are consistently priced below official rates, benefiting millions. Additionally, Model Bazaars are structured to support small businesses with low monthly rents, allowing entrepreneurs to set up stalls with minimal capital investment. Basic amenities such as free electricity, security, and sanitation are provided, enabling these markets to serve as dependable platforms for small business growth.

CEO Naveed Rafaqat Ahmad has steered PMBMC toward elevated standards of public welfare through a variety of high-impact initiatives. His programmes, including the Sahulat Stall (offering essentials at discounted rates) and a Free Home Delivery service, have strengthened PMBMC’s reputation as a community-focused institution. This success, coupled with his ability to secure substantial funding, reflects the trust placed in PMBMC’s leadership and future vision.

Mr. Ahmad hailed the government’s approval of additional funding as a “major milestone and turning point,” crediting Chairman Muhammad Afzal Khokhar, MNA, for securing this essential support. Further bolstering the project, the Board of Revenue has transferred land for the new bazaars at no cost, which has expedited the expansion’s development. Mr. Ahmad also said that, with timely fund disbursement, these new markets will offer goods at prices below the Deputy Commissioner (DC) rates, thereby enhancing public access to affordable essentials in both urban and rural regions.

Among the cities selected for new Model Bazaars are Mandi Bahauddin, Okara, Narowal, Chiniot, Sharaqpur, Jhelum, Wazirabad, Khanewal, Muzaffargarh, Bhalwal, Pattoki, Jaranwala, and Chunian. The project has received approval from the Planning & Development Board and the endorsement of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, with the final go-ahead pending from the Provincial Cabinet. The Chief Minister has expressed her commitment to swiftly release funds to meet the June 2025 completion target, emphasising her administration’s prioritisation of accessible public resources.

The expansion is expected to bring substantial economic relief to the public, especially as inflation continues to rise. By providing essential goods below DC rates, these markets act as economic stabilisers, offering families across Punjab affordable alternatives in times of financial strain. Beyond price relief, the Model Bazaar initiative is set to generate job opportunities, encourage small business growth, and contribute to sustainable economic development.

For many households, these markets represent vital resources that promote financial stability. Additionally, the new Model Bazaars will encourage the sale of local goods, boosting the income of small farmers and producers who benefit from fair access to the market.