Qasim Jamshaid
Islamabad: The budget Sunday markets set up in Islamabad’s Sadar Zone, Tarnol, Dhoke Abbasi, and Sangjani have turned into expensive markets due to the lack of interest from the district administration. Instead of providing relief to consumers, these markets are selling vegetables and fruits at prices higher than the official rates, creating multiple problems for shoppers.
A survey conducted by Daily Metro Watch at the Sunday market in Sadar Zone, Tarnol, Dhoke Abbasi, and Sangjani revealed that vendors were selling third-grade vegetables at first-grade prices. Meanwhile, stall holders displayed inappropriate behavior toward customers, security was lacking, and goods were being sold on the ground, reflecting the negligence of the district administration.
Women shoppers expressed their frustration, stating that the absence of a proper check-and-balance system allows stall holders to sell rotten fruits and vegetables at premium prices, with no one to hold them accountable. They also complained about the presence of unruly individuals and mismanagement by the authorities, which creates a distressing environment for female shoppers.
The citizens criticized the district administration, claiming that Sunday markets were merely a deception to fool the public. They pointed out that the prices of goods were the same as in regular markets, while the quality remained substandard. According to them, inflation has trapped the poor in a financial crisis, leaving families struggling with hunger.
Shoppers also noted that the prices in these markets match those of regular markets, proving that the Islamabad Sadar Zone administration has failed to provide any relief to consumers. Additionally, stalls set up amid unhygienic conditions further highlight the authorities’ negligence.
They accused the PML-N government of worsening inflation, claiming that the current price hikes are unprecedented. The rising cost of living has stripped the poor of even the smallest joys. Citizens believe that the government’s promises of relief were nothing but false claims. Instead of being affordable, Sunday markets have become expensive, where items are sold at inflated rates even in the presence of officials, and the behavior of stall holders is intolerable.
Consumers have urged the Deputy Commissioner of Islamabad to take special measures to improve the conditions of Sunday markets.
