Punjab has launched the country’s first and unique “CM Convenience On-the-Go Bazaars,” attracting public attention by providing affordable, high-quality goods while offering street vendors dignified livelihoods, officials said.
Under the direction of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, more than 400 stalls have been allocated to street vendors through a lottery system, enabling them to become formal shop owners.
In Lahore, ten bazaars were established in the first phase at locations including Gulshan-e-Ravi, Shadman, Madar-e-Millat, Madina Market, Township, Sunder Road, and Kotha Pind Faisal Town. Additional markets are operational at Khadak Nala, Awan Town, Valencia, and Shahdara. These bazaars offer fruits, vegetables, chicken, and grocery items at Deputy Commissioner (DC) rates.
Officials said the bazaars are equipped with security, washroom facilities, and proper sanitation. A drive-thru shopping option has also been introduced for customer convenience.
By February, authorities plan to make five more bazaars functional across Lahore, while projects in Barkhi, Saddar, Nishtar Town, Raiwind Phase Two, Faisal Town, Moon Market, and Ferozewala are in the final stages of completion.
Street vendors and shopkeepers expressed gratitude to Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, stating that the initiative has transformed them from temporary street sellers into permanent, recognized shop owners with proper facilities.
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz said the initiative is part of the vision of her father, Muhammad Nawaz Sharif, for a clean and beautiful Lahore. She emphasized that true development benefits every hardworking citizen, and similar projects will be gradually introduced across Punjab.
The Chairman of Punjab Convenience Bazaar Authority added that the initiative will reduce the need for subsidies traditionally provided during Ramadan bazaars, while ensuring affordable goods are available to the public throughout the year.
