The Punjab government has announced a major expansion of Sahulat Bazaars Punjab, aiming to establish new affordable markets in 27 cities across the province. The move is designed to provide direct relief to citizens facing rising inflation and high food prices.
Officials confirmed that the new bazaars will become operational from July 1 with the start of the new fiscal year. The initiative also includes the launch of mobile “Sahulat on the Go” markets to reach areas with limited access to affordable goods.
Authorities say the project aims to provide essential items, especially fruits and vegetables, at lower prices than the open market. Prices are expected to be up to 40 percent cheaper and nearly 18 percent below officially set rates.
The government has also planned free home delivery services within a five-kilometre radius of selected bazaars. Officials believe this step will especially benefit low-income families and elderly citizens who struggle with transportation costs.
The new Sahulat Bazaars will be set up in districts including Bhakkar, Mianwali, Pakpattan, Rajanpur, Muzaffargarh, Mandi Bahauddin, Rawalpindi, Attock, Jhelum, Khanewal, Faisalabad, Jhang, Toba Tek Singh, Bahawalpur, Bahawalnagar, Okara, Sialkot, Gujrat, and Sargodha.
Alongside permanent locations, 13 mobile markets will operate in selected urban and semi-urban areas. These include parts of Lahore, Rawalpindi, Faisalabad, Kasur, Jhelum, and Bhakkar.
Deputy commissioners have been directed to finalize site selection and complete preparations by June 30. The government will also allocate funding for the project in the upcoming Punjab budget 2026–27.
Officials say expanding Sahulat Bazaars in Punjab aims to stabilize food prices and improve access to essential goods. They add that the initiative will help reduce pressure on open markets and improve price control across the province.
