The All Pakistan Fruit & Vegetable Exporters, Importers, and Merchants Association (PFVA) has raised a strong objection to the management of the Karachi Fruit & Vegetable Market (Subzi Mandi), accusing them of severe corruption and mismanagement.
According to the PFVA, the market suffers from inadequate infrastructure, illegal occupation of spaces, and overwhelming traffic congestion, which tarnish its reputation among foreign buyers. This has a direct negative impact on the export of fruits and vegetables, a key sector for Pakistan’s economy.
The letter highlights several critical issues, including the continuous illegal allocation of shops at rates far below their market value, resulting in a loss of crores of Rupees to the Market Committee. Additionally, the collection of Market and Vehicle Fees is another cause for concern, as these funds, which are collected daily, are not being deposited into the official accounts, indicating a serious financial discrepancy.
The PFVA further alleges that the current management has misused these funds to expand their personal assets, incurring a loss of Rs. 20 to 30 crores. Moreover, it is claimed that the Market Committee’s management has unlawfully appointed 10 to 12 legal advisors, although only two are permitted by the rules. This act of favoritism, leading to excessive salaries running into millions of Rupees, has further drained the Market Committee’s finances.
The PFVA points out that despite being one of the largest Subzi Mandis in the region, the market’s growth has been stunted due to the corruption of its management. The traders’ interests have been sidelined for personal gains, causing the market’s decline.
In a positive development, the PFVA has learned that NAB Karachi is investigating the Chairman of the Market Committee, with a formal inquiry already underway. The PFVA has expressed its full support for this investigation and urges NAB Karachi to involve them in the process to ensure justice is served swiftly.
