Punjab approves new budget to establish Model Bazaars in 13 districts

LAHORE: The Provincial Cabinet of Punjab has sanctioned a whopping budget of Rs. 3.44 billion which is even more than the earlier proposed Rs. 2.5 billion for the establishment of Model Bazaars in 13 districts.

The increased allocation is indeed a step forward in addressing public needs and providing empowerment for communities. Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz praised the achievements of Model Bazaars in ensuring the availability of essential commodities at prices lower than the rates fixed by the government.

These markets serve as a blessing for millions and help the people of Punjab cope with the high costs of living, allowing for the creation of job opportunities.

The project will catalyze enterprising and liberal development by offering small businesses the opportunity to rent space with a subsidy starting from Rs. 10,000 per month. The allocation of the grant will subsequently develop further the network of Model Bazaars to 13 new sites across the province.

There are currently 36 bazaars in operation in 24 districts, of which 10 are in Lahore. These bazaars provide a clean and well-organized environment for people to buy essential commodities at quite cheap prices.

New sites include Mandi Bahauddin, Okara, Narowal, Jhelum, Chiniot, Sharaqpur, Wazirabad, Khanewal, Muzaffargarh, Bhalwal, Pattoki, Jaranwala, and Chunian. It is hoped that the new expansion will enhance the relief they were already getting and support local businesses for the benefit of the people of Punjab.