In a stringent move to curb illegal price hikes, Karachi authorities have campaigned targeting vendors engaging in unfair practices during Ramadan. Led by Commissioner Karachi Muhammad Salim Rajput, the crackdown aims to ensure compliance with government-set prices across the city.
Following directives from the Sindh government, magistrates in each area are tasked with verifying prices and enforcing official rates rigorously. Notably, 145 vendors faced fines exceeding Rs 10.16 million on Monday, with two shops shut down for violations. Authorities conducted checks at 440 locations citywide, uncovering widespread non-compliance.
Over the past 20 days alone, fines totaling over Rs 20.45 million were levied, resulting in the closure of 33 shops. Detailed reports reveal the extent of the crackdown: in South Karachi, fines of Rs 2.88 million were imposed on 37 vendors, while Eastern districts saw penalties of Rs 1.07 million on 17 vendors. Similarly, Western districts incurred fines exceeding Rs 52,000 on 17 vendors, and Central districts faced penalties of Rs 3.92 million on 41 vendors, with two shops closed down. Moreover, fines were imposed on vendors in Malir, Korangi, and Kemari, amounting to Rs 56,000, Rs 75,000, and Rs 45,000, respectively, on 14, 8, and 11 vendors.
This crackdown underscores the government’s commitment to protecting consumers from unjust price hikes, particularly during the holy month of Ramadan.
