Staff Report
The district administration Faisalabad has announced that the eight markets around the clock tower are being made vehicle-free for pedestrians.
This was announced by the Deputy Commissioner Faisalabad, Captain (R) Nadeem Nasir, during a press conference on Monday. He said that appropriate parking will be provided for vehicles outside each market for both business owners and shoppers, ensuring that everyone has a place to park their hat.
Vision of Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif
He explained that, following the vision of Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif, the district administration is clearing the markets of encroachments to create open spaces. By doing so, he said, they are ensuring convenience for citizens and traders.
Significance of the Eight Bazaar Markets
Highlighting the importance of the eight bazaar markets around the clock tower in terms of business activities, he noted that such markets are not only the bread and butter for many but also hold historical significance as part of our heritage. With this goal in mind, he added that steps are being taken to make these eight bazaars vehicle-free, he added.
Relocation of Street Vendors and Parking Arrangements
He said that street vendors would be relocated to designated areas on the main roads by setting up vendor markets outside the regular markets. Vendors in these markets will also be provided with free electricity.
Furthermore, specific times will be set for loading and unloading goods in the eight bazaar markets, and services will be provided for parking vehicles for residents living near these markets.
Parking Facilities and Transportation
He explained that insured parking will be available at parking spots, along with free parking options.
The Deputy Commissioner mentioned that a beautiful rickshaw service will be provided to transport shoppers to the markets. He noted that a successful meeting was held with traders, and they are also providing them with uniform designs for their shops that will enhance the aesthetic appeal of the eight bazaar markets.
Removal of Lunda Market and Parking Plaza
He informed that the Lunda market on Rajbah Road has been removed, where ample parking space is available. Besides, he said efforts are being accelerated to complete the parking plaza soon.
Vision for Chowk Ghanta Ghar and Adjacent Markets
He said that they aim to make Chowk Ghanta Ghar and adjacent markets Pakistan’s first major market where pedestrians will have unfettered access to quality facilities and recreational opportunities.
Profitability of Parking Company and E-Ticketing
The Deputy Commissioner Faisalabad said that the parking company is the only company that has turned a profit this time and soon all its systems will change to e-ticketing.
New Vendor Markets and Ramadan Market Utilization
He mentioned that a new vendor market has been established on Jhang Road while model markets will be set up on Nardwala Road and Satiana Road.
Parking Provision Before Vehicle-Free Zones
In response to a question, the DC clarified that the administration will provide parking facilities outside the bazaars before making the eight bazaar markets vehicle-free zones.
