Punjab Cabinet approves Rs3bn for model bazaars

The Punjab Cabinet has approved Rs3.44 billion for the construction of Model Bazaars in 13 districts.

This initiative aims to provide essential commodities at affordable prices and empower local communities.

Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz praised the performance of the Model Bazaars emphasizing their role in offering products below the district’s notified rates.

The Chief Minister highlighted that these bazaars are helping reduce living costs and create employment opportunities for people in Punjab. 

The initiative also provides small business owners with affordable monthly rent starting at Rs10,000 to promote entrepreneurship.

Currently, 36 Model Bazaars operate in 24 districts including Lahore. 

The new Rs3 billion funding will be used to open 13 more bazaars in districts such as Mandi Bahauddin, Okara, Narowal, and Jhelum. 

These bazaars offer a clean and organized shopping environment for daily essentials.

The Chief Minister also acknowledged the efforts of MNA Afzal Khokhar and PMBMC CEO Naveed Rafaqat Ahmad in securing the funds for the expansion. 

Naveed Rafaqat shared that the project’s success was due in part to the acquisition of state land, reducing project costs and making the construction of the new bazaars more feasible. This expansion of Model Bazaars is expected to strengthen local economies and provide significant relief to residents.