Islamabad, Mar 2025: 117 Illegal Profiteers Arrested and Fined During Surprise Ramadan Price Inspections. The Monitoring Committee convened its first session to oversee the provision of affordable essential food items for the residents of Islamabad during Ramadan.
The meeting, chaired by Convener Dr. Tariq Fazal Chaudhry on Thursday, brought together key officials, including Federal Minister Hanif Abbasi.
Federal Secretary Interior Khurram Agha, Chairman CDA and Chief Commissioner Islamabad Ch. Muhammad Ali Randhawa, IG Islamabad Ali Nasir Rizvi, Deputy Commissioner Islamabad, and other relevant authorities.
Subsidized Ramadan Bazaars & Price Monitoring
A comprehensive review was conducted regarding the Ramadan Relief Package, which includes the establishment of subsidized bazaars and Ramadan stalls to ensure the availability of essential food items at controlled prices.
During the briefing, officials highlighted that five major subsidized bazaars and 20 Ramadan stalls have been set up across various sectors of Islamabad under the Ramadan Relief Initiative.
To prevent price gouging, joint monitoring teams comprising officials from Islamabad Police and district administration have been deployed to regulate food prices.
These teams have taken strict measures, including imposing fines and launching legal actions against profiteers, leading 117 Profiteers Arrested violators so far.
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Lower Prices Compared to Other Cities
The committee was informed that Islamabad’s subsidized bazaars are offering essential food items at prices lower than those in Lahore and Rawalpindi.
The availability of staple goods in these markets is being ensured under the Ramadan Relief Package, preventing shortages and undue price hikes.
One of the key highlights of the meeting was the provision of sugar at a subsidized rate of Rs. 130 per kilogram at designated stalls. The committee directed authorities to increase sugar stall numbers and ensure an adequate supply to meet public demand.
Furthermore, the district administration was instructed to formulate a strategy to reduce the prices of flour, ghee, sugar, chicken, and eggs in the subsidized markets.
On-Ground Inspection of Ramadan Markets
Following the meeting, the Monitoring Committee visited the subsidized bazaars and Ramadan stalls to conduct an on-site review of prices and assess the implementation of the Ramadan Relief Package.
Authorities reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring that affordable essential food items remain accessible to the public throughout the holy month.
