Commissioner Karachi, Syed Hassan Naqvi, chaired a review meeting to assess the ongoing crackdown against price gouging in the city. The meeting, attended via video link by Deputy Commissioners (DCs) and Assistant Commissioners (ACs), provided an update on actions taken against profiteers and price violations.
The commissioner expressed satisfaction with the stabilization of milk and other essential commodity prices, but took notice of the illegal price hikes in mutton, beef, and eggs. He instructed strict enforcement of official price rates across the city. During the past week, actions were taken against 541 profiteers, resulting in fines amounting to Rs. 2.428 million. A total of 1,248 inspections were carried out, leading to the sealing of eight shops — seven in Keamari and one in South District.
DC South, AltafSariyo, reported that Rs. 958,000 in fines were imposed on 186 profiteers, while DC East, ShehzarFazalAbbasi, fined 37 shopkeepers a total of Rs. 451,000. Other districts, including West, Central, Malir, Korangi, and Keamari, also reported significant fines and actions against profiteers, with a focus on ensuring strict adherence to official rates.
The commissioner emphasized that ACs will continue daily inspections to check prices and product quality, ensuring that essential items are sold at government-mandated prices. He also highlighted plans to improve the performance of the market committee, ensuring fair pricing for vegetables and fruits. The meeting also addressed issues related to illegal parking, construction debris on roads, and illegal billboards. Additionally, the commissioner reviewed complaints from citizens, with 102 grievances received about overpricing, particularly concerning poultry, eggs, vegetables, fruits, and groceries. Commissioner Naqvi directed DCs and ACs to take swift action against profiteers and ensure that citizens have access to essential commodities at government-approved prices without exception.
