Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif has set a July deadline for the completion of 27 new “Sahulat Bazars” across the province.
She said that 13 “Sahulat On-the-Go” markets will also be established in various districts of Punjab. The new markets are expected to generate 1,300 new business opportunities and create direct employment for over 600 people.
According to officials, more than 90 million citizens will benefit annually from these new facilities. Prices of fruits and vegetables and other essential items will be 40% lower than the open market rates and 18% lower than DC-notified rates.
The initiative is expected to save over Rs 5.3 billion for nearly 850,000 households each year. It will also promote the local supply chain and boost small businesses.
Shopkeepers operating in these markets are expected to see a 24% increase in sales and a 23% rise in profits. They will also save around Rs 350 million annually due to free electricity, sanitation, and security services.
Each Sahulat Bazar will be equipped with a central control room monitored through CCTV cameras. A free home delivery service within a 5-kilometre radius will ensure delivery within 40 minutes, saving both time and fuel.
New Sahulat Bazars will be established in districts including Bhakkar, Mianwali, Pakpattan, Rajanpur, Muzaffargarh, Mandi Bahauddin, Rawalpindi, Attock, and Jhelum. Khanewal, Faisalabad, Jhang, Toba Tek Singh, Bahawalpur, Bahawalnagar, Okara, Sialkot, Gujrat, and Sargodha are also included in the project.
“Sahulat On-the-Go” markets will be set up in various tehsils of Lahore, Jhelum, Bhakkar, Rawalpindi, Kasur, and Faisalabad.
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif said the government is committed to providing affordable and quality food items to the public at all costs.
She added that these markets will offer clear economic relief through low-priced vegetables and fruits, ensuring hygienic and high-quality products.
Facilities such as parking, seating areas, separate counters for senior citizens, clean drinking water, mosques, and a family-friendly environment will also be provided in all Sahulat Bazars.
