Naqvi orders fixing concessional prices for Ramazan essentials

Commissioner Karachi Syed Hassan Naqvi directed in a meeting on Saturday the city administration to establish concessional and affordable prices for groceries, fruits, and vegetables during Ramazan, in collaboration with wholesalers and retailers.

Naqvi instructed officials to take extraordinary measures to ensure consumers could purchase essential items at these controlled prices. All deputy commissioners joined the meeting via video link, while representatives from grocery and fruit and vegetable associations, consumer groups, and relevant government departments attended in person. Assistant Commissioner Headquarters Rabia Syed presented a comparative analysis of item prices across various cities, including Karachi.

The meeting underscored the need to regulate the prices of eggs and bananas. Officials decided that magistrates would enforce strict compliance with the official prices for eggs, bananas, and roti. Authorities also resolved to set concessional prices for other essential Ramadan items, including flour, oil, ghee, sugar, bakery goods, pulses, and fresh produce. Starting next week, officials would conduct consultative meetings with wholesalers, retailers, and business owners from relevant associations and companies.

Naqvi instructed deputy commissioners to prioritise discussions with traders and companies to ensure the timely implementation of these price controls. Additionally, officials agreed to publish the list of Ramadan prices before the holy month begins. The Bureau of Supply, with the support of trade associations, would distribute these price lists to all markets. Assistant commissioners would also ensure that shops prominently display the official Ramadan price list.