LAHORE: The government is planning to reduce the number of Ramazan bazaars from 310 to 51 in Punjab, as it is likely to approve a proposal seeking distribution of Ramazan relief hampers among as many as 6.6 million needy families in the province.

Under the plan, the provincial metropolis of Lahore, where the government used to set up 31 bazaars in the holy month of Ramazan each year, will now have just 10 such bazaars at the venues of model bazaars, Dawn has learnt.

“In fact, the government, following directions of the chief minister-designate Ms Maryam Nawaz, wants distribution of Ramzan relief hampers, each comprising one 10kg wheat flour bag, 2kg ghee, 2kg sugar, 2kg rice (super basmati) and 2kg baisen, among over 6.6m deserving people at their doorstep. Of these people, over 481,000 live in Lahore,” an official source privy to the development told Dawn on Friday, adding that the data of these people has been taken from the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP).

The official, seeking anonymity, says the method of distribution of these hampers is also being worked out, and most likely, private courier companies will be engaged for this task. He says because of the distribution of hampers on their doorsteps, the people will not require to visit markets, while it will also relieve the government of the financial burden and hassle of setting up such a huge number of Ramazan bazaars this year.

The official says there are total 36 model bazaars in Punjab, including 10 in Lahore. Similarly, 15 districts have no model bazaars. These 36 model bazaars would be converted into Ramazan bazaars offering items on cheaper rates to the public, he adds.

“Similarly, the 15 districts having no model bazaars will also have one bazaar each. Thus the total number of Ramazan bazaars will be 51 instead of the previous 310, including 31 in Lahore alone,” he says.

To a question, he says the 10 Ramazan bazaars will be set up at the existing 10 model bazaars in Lahore at various localities, including Thokar Niaz Baig, Johar Town, China Scheme, Chung, Harbanspura, Raiwind, Sabzazaar, Sher Shah Colony, Township and Wahdat Colony.

“The initiative will not only save money which the needy people spend on reaching markets, but also reduce traffic on the roads and improve environment,” he adds.

The official says the number of fair price shops may also be reduced as the issue is being discussed these days.

Published in Dawn, February 24th, 2024