A beacon of hope in times of profiteering

KARACHI:

Ramazan is the month of charity, self-discipline, and empathy, but there are those, especially traders and shopkeepers, who try to make the most of this holy month by indulging in hoarding and profiteering.

Some people, however, stand tall in the midst of such callousness imbibing the true spirit of Ramazan and blazing a trail. One such example is the “Night Fruit Market,” located next to Empress Market and in front of Jahangir Park in Saddar.

This unique market has become a popular destination for those looking for fresh fruits at reduced prices during the fasting month. The market, which operates 24 hours a day, offers a much-needed relief to people reeling from back-breaking inflation.

Night Fruit Market in-charge Malik Khan said that there are around 400 fruit carts at the market, each selling a variety of seasonal fruits. These vendors buy their fruits from Sabzi Mandi in bulk, which helps them keep prices competitive. On average, cart owners earn a profit of Rs50 to Rs100 per crate of fruit.

“This is the most affordable fruit market in Karachi,” said Khan. “During Ramazan, the prices here are even lower than the official rates. Compared to other areas in the city, fruits are sold here at a discount of 50 to 70 per cent,” he claimed.

Najibullah, a local fruit vendor, said that they see the highest traffic at night, especially during Ramazan when the market remains busy well into the hours before sehri. “There is a steady flow of customers throughout the night, making it one of the busiest times for us,” he added.

For Asad Khan, another fruit vendor in the market, the lower prices make it a popular spot. He listed the prices which are considerably lower than in other parts of the metropolis. At his cart, bananas are available for Rs50 to Rs80 per dozen; watermelon, Rs120 to Rs150 per kg; native papaya, for Rs140 per kg; apples, Rs120 to Rs200 per kg; melon, Rs50 to Rs70 per kg; kino, Rs250 to Rs300 per dozen; guava, Rs140 per kg; and strawberries are selling for Rs200 to Rs300 per kg.

Hina Khatoon, a resident of Lyari, said that she is satisfied with the prices at the market, particularly during Ramazan when fruits are in high demand for Iftar. “Fruits are very expensive in our area, but here at the Night Fruit Market, we can purchase them at a reasonable price. Women can shop without fear even late at night,” Hina added.

Muhammad Haroon, a resident of Safoora, endorsed Hina, saying that fruit prices are extremely high in other parts of the city. “Fruits are being sold above the official prices in most areas. The government should take stronger steps to control prices, especially during Ramazan, so that even families with limited resources can afford to feed their children fruits at Iftar.”