Punjab’s Cheap Markets Fail to Ease People’s Burden

Punjab government- (Special Correspondent/Web desk) The Punjab government’s much-publicized “Sasta Sahulat Bazaars” have left the public disappointed. Instead of affordable, quality produce, shoppers find overpriced and substandard fruits and vegetables. Residents say there is no effective monitoring or quality control, allowing vendors to overcharge under the guise of running low-cost markets.
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Prices Far Above Official Rates
At the Sabzazar Sasta Sahulat Bazaar, shoppers are paying much more than the official rates. Cauliflower is selling for Rs 200 per kg instead of Rs 150, capsicum for Rs 270 instead of Rs 200, and bitter gourd for Rs 220 instead of Rs 160. Peas are priced at Rs 280 instead of Rs 240, while ginger is being sold for Rs 520 against the official Rs 490. Garlic, lemons, tomatoes, and ridge gourd are also available at prices well above government rates.

Fruits Also Overpriced
The price hike isn’t limited to vegetables. Bananas are selling for up to Rs 270 per dozen, compared to the official rate of Rs 215. Shoppers say profiteers are taking advantage, while the administration remains inactive.

Public Demands Action
Frustrated citizens are urging the government to step in. They want immediate reduction in fruit and vegetable prices, along with strict monitoring to improve quality and stop overcharging at these so-called low-cost markets.