Punjab Governor Maryam Nawaz has officially launched PERA the Punjab Economic and Regulatory Authority aimed at controlling unregulated price hikes, ensuring food availability, and combating illegal encroachments across the province.

PERA Mandated to Enforce Price Regulations Across Markets

Under PERA, market committees and enforcement teams will actively monitor wholesale and retail food prices, clamp down on hoarding and profiteering, and issue penalties to traders violating price ceilings. This initiative seeks to protect consumers amid surging inflation across Pakistan.

Transparency and Daily Reporting Part of PERA’s Framework

The programme includes mandated daily price reporting, transparency in supply chains, and real-time monitoring via market surveillance. Citizens can access up-to-date food rates and file complaints against violators, promoting accountability and fairness in the market.

Special Enforcers to Remove Illegal Encroachments Province-Wide

PERA’s extended mandate includes task forces equipped to dismantle illegal encroachments on public land, sidewalks, and roads. These teams will operate in major cities like Lahore, Faisalabad, and Rawalpindi to reclaim public spaces for civic use.

Governor Emphasizes Citizen-Centric Governance Approach

Maryam Nawaz described PERA as a citizen-oriented governance model, stressing that the authority bridges consumer rights with regulatory enforcement. She affirmed that uprooting inflationary tactics and encroachments is critical for economic justice.

Coordination with Local Government and Law Enforcement

PERA will work closely with district administrations, police, revenue departments, and municipal bodies. This cooperation ensures that price infractions are penalized and encroachments removed without bureaucratic delays, streamlining governance.

Challenges Ahead: Inflation Trends and Structural Issues

Officials acknowledge tough challenges ahead. Punjab’s inflation rate remains elevated due to global and domestic factors including currency depreciation, supply chain disruption, and fiscal pressure. Restoring market order depends on sustained supply management and consistent enforcement.

PERA’s Long-Term Goals: Stabilizing Markets and Urban Spaces

Beyond immediate actions, PERA aims to stabilize market prices, deter illegal land use, and promote better urban planning. The initiative could serve as a model for other provinces seeking to balance economic stability with urban governance.

Public Feedback and Complaint Mechanism Central to Success

The authority has established a helpline, mobile app, and WhatsApp service for citizens to report price abuse or encroachments. Public involvement is seen as essential to enhance transparency and responsiveness.

Conclusion: PERA as a Bold Move in Punjab Governance

Maryam Nawaz’s launch of PERA marks a bold step toward proactive government intervention in market regulation and urban enforcement. The authority’s effectiveness in curbing inflation and reclaiming public spaces will be crucial to its long-term success.