Punjab Cattle Market Development Reviewed, Digital Solutions Proposed to Tackle Overcharging
LAHORE, July 16: A meeting of the Punjab Cattle Market Management and Development Company (PCMMDC) was held on Wednesday at the Civil Secretariat, chaired by Secretary Local Government Shakeel Ahmed Mian, to review the company’s performance, progress on ongoing projects, recent cattle market auctions, and future plans.
Chief Executive Officer Bilal Hashim briefed the meeting on the progress so far and provided detailed updates on various development initiatives. The session was also attended by Additional Secretary Development Ahmer Suhail Kaifi, Section Officer (Companies), and other relevant officials.
During the briefing, the secretary was presented with comprehensive data on recent cattle market auctions. The meeting also discussed the potential introduction of an e-ticketing system to enhance transparency and ensure accurate revenue tracking.
“Technology has become essential to eliminate overcharging and bring transparency,” Mr. Mian said. “A digital ticketing system would be a vital step towards ensuring a fair and efficient livestock market experience.”
Participants were informed that 80 percent of the work on the Lahore model cattle market has been completed, while the Faisalabad project has achieved 64 percent physical progress. Both projects are expected to be completed and opened to the public soon.
The secretary announced that the government is considering establishing another cattle market in northern Lahore, designed on the pattern of the Shahpur Kanjran market. He instructed that a feasibility study be conducted prior to construction to assess area-specific needs, traffic patterns, business opportunities, and urban infrastructure.
“The proposed market will offer a clean, secure, and well-organised space, facilitating business and ensuring convenience for traders,” Mr. Mian stated.
He further disclosed that three more cities across Punjab would see the development of similar model cattle markets after the completion of Lahore and Faisalabad projects. The design and facilities in these markets will meet modern commercial standards to ensure ease of access for both buyers and livestock traders.
The secretary stressed the importance of embedding transparency, innovation, and digitalisation into the company’s core policies to improve governance and restore public confidence in the cattle market system.
“Model markets will not only bring order to urban trade but will also drive economic activity in rural areas,” he added. “These projects are part of the Punjab government’s livestock development vision aimed at supporting farmers, traders, and consumers through structured and accessible facilities.”
The meeting concluded with a reaffirmation of the government’s commitment to reforming and modernising Punjab’s cattle market infrastructure to ensure transparency, efficiency, and service delivery aligned with contemporary needs.
