Karachi’s wholesale medicine market reopened after authorities lifted a sudden seal placed during a surprise operation, ending a disruption that traders said affected medicine supplies in the city and other parts of the country.
The market, described in the source text as Karachi’s largest wholesale drug hub, was initially sealed by Assistant Commissioner Hazim Bhangwar. However, it was later reopened after traders submitted written undertakings to follow the required rules and regulations.
The closure created immediate concern because it came just after the four-day Eid al-Fitr holidays, when businesses were preparing to restock.
Traders and citizens, especially those who had travelled from distant areas, reportedly faced major difficulties as soon as the market reopened after Eid. Shopkeepers said the timing made the disruption even more serious because it affected a key trading day.
According to market representatives, the administration did not issue prior notice before sealing the area. That triggered strong protests from traders and the market’s vice president.
Traders Say Closure Risked Medicine Availability
Market representatives argued that the abrupt sealing could have serious consequences for patients who depend on timely access to medicines.
They said the market had already remained closed during the Eid holidays, and the first trading day afterwards was critical for replenishing stock. In their view, the sudden action placed additional pressure on supply and raised fears about the availability of medicine.
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Because Karachi’s wholesale medicine market serves a broad network, any interruption can quickly affect supply beyond the city itself.
Following protests and concerns over supply disruptions, the Deputy Commissioner of South intervened and ordered the market reopened. Authorities then collected written assurances from traders confirming compliance with the relevant regulations. After that, the market was allowed to resume normal operations.
