LAHORE: The Punjab Planning and Development Board has approved the allocation of Rs 3.433 billion for the establishment of model markets in 13 cities across the province. The final green light from the provincial cabinet is pending.
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has directed that the summary be placed before the cabinet to speed up the release of funds and to meet the construction target.
Naveed Rafat Ahmed, CEO, Punjab Model Bazaar Management Company (PMBMC) said that the initiative aims to provide essential commodities at below-market rates by establishing a safe and accessible platform for small businesses. He said that Punjab already hosts 36 model bazaars in 24 districts, including 10 in Lahore, which provide a clean and orderly shopping environment for basic daily needs. The price is often lower than the rates set by the government.
He said that model bazaars have emerged as hubs of entrepreneurship where aspiring business owners can set up stalls with minimum investment. For just Rs 10,000, shopkeepers get free electricity, parking, security and cleaning services, with an average monthly rent of Rs 7,500. This supporting infrastructure has made these markets popular with small business owners looking for affordable and sustainable growth opportunities.
Naveed Raffakat said that initially PMBMC requested Rs 2.5 billion to develop markets in ten cities. However, after a detailed review, the scope of the project was expanded to include 13 cities, increasing the budget by Rs 3.433 billion. The new towns designated as model markets include Mandi Bahauddin, Okara, Narowal, Chiniot, Sharqpur, Jhelum, Wazirabad, Khanewal, Muzaffargarh, Bhalwal, Patuki, Jaranwala and Chunian.
He said that PMBMC Chairman MNA Muhammad Afzal Khokhar played an important role in getting government support for this project. Ahmed noted that Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz’s directive to set up these bazaars in underserved districts shows her commitment to public welfare and economic relief.
Punjab has earmarked Rs 3.433 billion for the expansion of model bazaars in 13 cities. will get
Once the funds are released, PMBMC estimates that the markets will be fully operational by June 2025. This extension will provide essential goods at prices lower than the DC rate, which will provide significant relief to consumers during inflation. It will also serve as a valuable resource for urban and rural communities alike, improving public access to affordable necessities and supporting economic resilience.
