A new era of public shopping has begun in Punjab with the introduction of modern fruit and vegetable markets across the province, aimed at improving facilities for consumers and traders while ensuring transparency in pricing and supply.
Under the “Modern Punjab” initiative, modern fruit and vegetable markets have been introduced in Punjab’s sabzi mandis. All water filtration plants have been restored to provide clean drinking water for buyers and commission agents. New staff and a proper waste collection system have also been introduced, while clean and fully functional toilets are now available in 188 modern markets across the province.
Help desks have been set up for customers and rate boards have been prominently displayed. More than 266,000 streetlights have been activated in the markets. Green waste generated in the markets will now be used to produce biogas and poultry feed. Drainage systems have been restored in every modern market, and covers have been installed on all manholes.
For the first time in Punjab, a “tracking on wheel” system has been introduced to maintain records of supply and demand for fruits and vegetables. Every truck bringing fruits and vegetables into Punjab is now being tracked and linked with the Safe City Authority system. New modern vegetable markets will be established in Pakpattan, Kasur, Sahiwal, Mian Channu, Sheikhupura, and Mandi Bahauddin.
To provide affordable fruits and vegetables to the people of Murree, a dedicated supply chain system has been set up, ensuring availability at wholesale rates.
Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif has directed the adoption of modern farming techniques to ensure the availability of off-season vegetables. She has also ordered strict action against price control magistrates involved in deceiving the public, including dismissal from service and imprisonment. Approval has been given to recruit secretaries in market committees through the Public Service Commission on a merit-based system.
Speaking on the occasion, Maryam Nawaz said that the mafia culture has been eliminated from Punjab and will no longer be allowed to flourish. She reaffirmed the government’s commitment to providing affordable flour and bread to the public and announced that she would personally conduct surprise visits to fruit and vegetable markets. She added that the reforms in Punjab are setting an example, compelling other provinces to follow suit.
