‘Janatar Bazar’ to launch in February, will offer daily essentials at fair prices
First will launch in Dhaka’s Mohammadpur, with five more locations to follow
Highlights:
- First such bazar will be in Mohammadpur, 5 more will follow in Dhaka
- Goal is to establish a direct relationship between farmers and consumers
- Products will be transported directly from regions where prices are lower
- Buyers can view stock of products and their prices online
The Dhaka district administration has announced the launch of a fair-price market initiative, "Janatar Bazar," to provide daily necessities at affordable rates in a bid to control the price hike of essential commodities and offer relief to the public.
The first market will begin operations in February in Mohammadpur, with five more locations to follow across Dhaka.
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The initiative was unveiled today (4 January) during a view-exchange meeting in the Mohammadpur Beribadh area.
Deputy Commissioner Tanvir Ahmed highlighted the project's primary aim of directly connecting farmers with consumers to eliminate middlemen and stabilise product prices.
"Our goal is to establish a direct relationship between farmers and consumers while ensuring affordability. Initially, six markets will be established in Dhaka, and we aim to expand this initiative further," said Tanvir.
Essential commodities such as fish, meat, milk, eggs, and vegetables will be sold at fixed prices determined by the district administration.
Special facilities will be offered during Ramadan, and software will be developed to manage records and display real-time prices online alongside the stock.
These prices will consider transportation costs and a reasonable profit margin for entrepreneurs.
The identified locations include Mohammadpur near ULAB University, Mirpur near Golartek field, Kamrangirchar near Kunraghat Medical intersection, Badda near Satarkul Boro Beraid Bazar Graveyard, Gulshan near Dhelna Mosque field, and Demra near Sarulia Bazar.
The initiative involves local entrepreneurs, students, and unemployed youth in managing the markets by constructing infrastructure on government land.
"Products will be transported directly from regions where prices are lower, ensuring quality control and cost-efficiency," added Tanvir.
Relevant government departments, including the Department of Agricultural Extension, the Ministry of Commerce, and the Directorate of National Consumers' Right Protection, will collaborate on the project.
Locals welcomed the initiative, expressing hope that it would significantly assist low-income groups.
They stressed the need for crowd control, security, and sustainable implementation.
Student representatives and local dignitaries also shared their feedback and proposals during the meeting.
Seeking collaboration, Tanvir said, "Your advice and active participation are crucial for the success of this initiative. Together, we can ensure its smooth implementation."
Janatar Bazar promises to enhance food accessibility while promoting sustainable market practices, addressing a long-standing need for affordable essentials in the capital.
