KARACHI – The country’s largest wholesale medicine market, located in Karachi, was abruptly sealed by district administration today, causing a temporary suspension of pharmaceutical supplies across the city and other parts of the country.
Sudden Action by Administration
The operation was led by Assistant Commissioner Hazim Bangwar, who issued orders to seal the market during a surprise inspection. The move came immediately after the market reopened following the four-day Eid-ul-Fitr holidays.
Impact on Supply Chain
The sudden closure caused significant distress to citizens and retailers who had traveled from far-flung areas to restock supplies. Traders expressed concerns that the shutdown could lead to a severe shortage of life-saving drugs at retail medical stores.
Protest by Traders
The Vice President of the Medicine Market, along with several shopkeepers, staged a protest against the action. They claimed that the administration did not issue any warnings or notices before sealing the premises. They further stated that after the long Eid break, today was crucial for replenishing stocks to meet the needs of hospitals and patients.
“Sealing the market without notice puts the lives of thousands of patients at risk,” stated a representative of the wholesale association.
Market Reopened
Taking notice of the gravity of the situation, the Deputy Commissioner (DC) South intervened and ordered the market to be de-sealed. The administration allowed the market to resume operations only after obtaining affidavits from the shopkeepers, ensuring their commitment to following official rules and regulations. The supply of medicines has since begun to normalize.
