KARACHI : In a bid to curb overpricing and ensure the availability of essential food items at official rates during the holy month of Ramadan, the Karachi administration has finalized a comprehensive strategy. The decisions were made during a high-level meeting chaired by Commissioner Karachi, Syed Hassan Naqvi, where a roadmap was laid out to provide relief to citizens.
As part of the new measures, special steps will be taken to transform 13 major markets across the city into “Model Markets” to set a standard for price compliance. Additionally, all major superstores have been directed to establish dedicated Ramadan Package Counters offering quality items at subsidized rates. These counters will be monitored by specialized staff under the direct supervision of Assistant Commissioners to ensure the benefits reach the public.
The administration has also focused on the supply chain, ensuring that an effective system is implemented at the Sabzi Mandi to fix fair prices for fruits and vegetables. All Deputy Commissioners have been tasked with coordinating efforts in their respective districts to conduct daily price checks and ensure that goods are available according to the official rates notified at the wholesale level.
During the meeting, Assistant Commissioner Headquarters Rabia Syed shared that the crackdown is already in full swing. In January alone, over Rs. 7.9 million in fines were imposed, with 6,445 locations inspected and 93 shops sealed for illegal profiteering. Commissioner Naqvi warned that any official showing negligence in enforcing price control will be held accountable, emphasizing that complaint centers will be established in key markets to address public grievances immediately.
