Karachi’s largest wholesale medicine market has reopened following a brief closure by Assistant Commissioner Hazim Bhangwar during a surprise operation.
The sudden sealing of the market disrupted the supply of medicines across Karachi and other parts of the country. The closure lasted only a short time, and the market resumed operations after traders provided written undertakings to authorities.
The reopening came immediately after the four-day Eid al-Fitr holidays. Traders and citizens, many traveling from distant areas, faced difficulties due to the market’s temporary closure. Essential stock replenishment was delayed, affecting patients and pharmacies.
The Vice President of the medicine market and shopkeepers strongly protested the closure. They said the administration issued no prior notice and that the timing was critical for replenishing stock after the holidays. They warned that sudden closures could put patients’ lives at risk.
Recognizing the urgency, the Deputy Commissioner South intervened and ordered the market to be de-sealed. Traders were asked to provide written assurances confirming compliance with all necessary rules and regulations.
Authorities confirmed that operations in the medicine market have now returned to normal. Traders and shopkeepers welcomed the decision, highlighting the importance of uninterrupted access to medicines for public health.
Officials emphasized that future inspections will follow proper procedures to avoid sudden disruptions. They urged traders to maintain compliance with safety and regulatory guidelines to ensure smooth operations.
The temporary closure highlighted the critical role of Karachi’s medicine market in the national supply chain. Experts say uninterrupted functioning of such markets is essential for timely distribution of medicines across the country.
With operations now restored, authorities continue to monitor the market to prevent further disruptions, while traders resume stocking and supplying medicines to meet the growing demand post-holidays.
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