The prices of vegetables and fruits would be fixed on a daily basis while the prices of grocery items may be fixed on fortnightly or monthly basis, said a statement issued by the directorate general of the Bureau of Supply and Prices (BSP) on Monday.
The price list would be displayed at the point-of-sale of that vendor or store. The prices would also be published in the official gazette as required under Section 7(1) of the Sindh Essential Commodities Price Control and Prevention of Profiteering and Hoarding Act, 2005. The controllers and special magistrates (price control) of the district administration were instructed to keep a check on prices during the holy month and ensure the availability of essential items on regular basis in the market; and to prevent hoarding, black-marketing and illegal profiteering.
The officials have been instructed to meet with wholesalers and other stakeholders to rationalise prices for their products. The assistant commissioners and mukhtiarkars, on behalf of the deputy commissioners, along with BSP have been asked to visit and monitor auction of vegetables and fruits in the markets on daily basis. This includes surprise inspections to ensure the goods were being sold at the notified price.
The measures include the setting of control rooms and complaint centres. An awareness campaign through print and electronic media would inform the public regarding registration of complaints and their reddressal against the illegal profiteering and non-display of price lists. It ordered setting up of Ramzan Bachat Bazaars (affordable markets), and to seek the assistance of the Food department and the Utility Stores Corporation to provide wheat flour and essential food items at Bachat Bazaars at subsidised rates.
Published in The Express Tribune, February 21st, 2023.
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