Independent Report
Peshawar, February 17, 2026: Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Muhammad Sohail Afridi, chaired a high-level meeting at Pakhtunkhwa House Islamabad to review preparations for the holy month of Ramadan. The session focused on ensuring public relief, the supply of quality food at official rates, and the efficient implementation of the Ramadan Relief Package for deserving families.
Addressing the meeting, CM Afridi emphasized that providing relief to the public during Ramadan is a top government priority. He stated that any increase in prices during the holy month is unacceptable and directed strict enforcement of price control across the province. He warned against hoarding and self-imposed pricing, instructing authorities to take strict legal action against violations.
The Chief Minister directed that Ehsaas Ramadan Dastarkhwans be established in every district, as well as at all provincial entry points, to provide sahri and iftar facilities for travelers. He further instructed the provision of quality food at orphanages, Darul Aman, and shelter homes. Under the Ehsaas Ramadan Package, Rs 12,500 per family will be distributed to 1,016,394 eligible households, with distribution to be completed by the eighth day of Ramadan. Priority will be given to orphans, widows, the poor, and persons with disabilities.
CM Afridi also instructed the health department to ensure 24/7 availability of doctors and medicines in all government hospitals during Ramadan, emphasizing that patients must not face difficulties while fasting. He confirmed that he will personally supervise Ramadan arrangements throughout the province.
During the briefing, officials reported the establishment of 146 price monitoring desks and the appointment of 161 additional price control magistrates. Special measures will monitor prices in rural areas, while additional sanitation teams will maintain cleanliness. Vegetable and fruit markets will now require uploading of photographs and GIS coordinates of bidding processes. Deputy Commissioners have been instructed to prevent hoarding.
The meeting was attended via video link by Speaker Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Assembly Babar Saleem Swati, MPA Akbar Ayub Khan, Chief Secretary Shahab Ali Shah, regional commissioners, and all district deputy commissioners.
