LAHORE: The Lahore city district administration has intensified its ongoing price control campaign to eliminate artificial inflation across the metropolitan area.

According to a spokesman, the administration led by Deputy Commissioner retired Capt Muhammad Ali Ijaz, continues supervising markets, during which price control magistrates (PCMs) scrutinised a huge number of shops to ensure adherence to the government-notified rate lists.

The rigorous enforcement drive, according to a spokesperson, resulted in the detection of 52 violations pertaining to overcharging and hoarding, leading to the immediate sealing of seven commercial establishments and the arrest of four individuals involved in persistent non-compliance with administrative orders.

To maintain market equilibrium, the admin claims to have implemented a robust monitoring mechanism for the supply-demand dynamics, noting that the arrival of 54 trucks of potatoes, 50 trucks of onions, and 22 trucks of tomatoes has successfully stabilised the market prices due to surplus supply.

The DC issued categorical instructions to all magistrates to remain proactive in the field and take stern legal action against elements attempting to create an artificial shortage or manipulate the supply chain for illicit gains. He underscored that the protection of consumer rights is the foremost priority of the district administration and mandated that every shopkeeper must display the official price list prominently to ensure transparency in transactions.

He reiterated a zero-tolerance policy against profiteers, asserting that those exploiting the commoners will be dealt with under the full force of the law without any leniency. Furthermore, he encouraged citizens to utilise the dedicated district control room number 03070002345 or contact the administration through official social media channels to report any instances of price gouging.

Meanwhile various teams of the Lahore Development Authority (LDA) on Monday sealed as many as 222 business premises on account of non-payment of commercialisation fee and penalties, according to a spokesman.

Published in Dawn, May 19th, 2026