The Model Cart Markets, launched on the directives of Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz to provide affordable essentials and employment opportunities, are struggling to achieve their goals due to the negligence of the district administration.
While 160,000 model carts were distributed free of cost to vendors, the district administration has failed to enforce government-mandated rates for fruits, vegetables, and other essential goods.
As a result, many carts remain empty, with vendors complaining about high wholesale prices that make it impossible to sell at subsidized rates.
“Vegetables are expensive at the source, so how can we sell them cheaply?” lamented one vendor. Citizens, too, expressed frustration over the high prices, citing a lack of relief despite the initiative.
Both vendors and customers are urging the district administration to regulate rates at wholesale markets to ensure that the intended benefits of the model cart markets reach the people.
