80 Ramazan markets across Punjab receive 40 million visitors

LAHORE: The Punjab government's network of 80 Ramazan markets established across the province has collectively received approximately 40 million visitors during the holy month, providing subsidised essential commodities to citizens grappling with inflation.

The Ramazan markets, set up by the provincial government as part of its annual initiative to provide relief to consumers during the fasting month, witnessed an overwhelming response from the public. A total of 80 such markets were operational across Punjab, and the cumulative footfall reached the 40 million mark, underscoring the heavy reliance of citizens on these subsidised outlets for purchasing daily essentials at reduced prices.

The initiative is a recurring feature of the Punjab government's efforts during Ramazan, aimed at ensuring the availability of basic food items — including flour, sugar, cooking oil, pulses, and other staples — at rates lower than the open market. The markets are typically established in major cities and towns across the province to maximise accessibility for the general public.

The establishment of these bazaars is part of a broader set of measures taken by the Punjab government each year to ease the financial burden on households during Ramazan, when demand for food items traditionally surges. The significant visitor count of 40 million reflects the scale of the programme and the extent to which the public availed the facility.

The Ramazan markets have become a key component of the government's annual welfare strategy during the holy month, offering a range of subsidised products to help citizens manage their household budgets amid rising costs of living. The large turnout also highlights the continuing demand for government-supported price relief among consumers in Punjab.

The 80 markets spread across the province served as critical access points for millions of families seeking affordable groceries and essential supplies throughout Ramazan, making the initiative one of the largest public welfare drives during the fasting season in the country.