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ISLAMABAD, Jan 04 (APP):Islamabad residents have warmly welcomed the Federal Capital’s first organic community market at F-7 Park, terming it a refreshing and much-needed initiative that combines healthy living, family recreation and responsible use of public spaces.
From early morning, families, senior citizens, and young visitors thronged the park, appreciating the availability of fresh, chemical-free food products in a clean and pleasant environment.
Many visitors said the market offered a healthy alternative to traditional shopping while also providing a lively weekend experience.
“This is exactly what Islamabad needs — clean food, open air, and a family-friendly atmosphere,” said Ayesha Khan, a resident of F-7, while shopping for organic vegetables.
“We usually have to rely on expensive stores for such products, but having them in a public park makes them accessible and enjoyable.”
Another visitor, Muhammad Usman, said the concept of organic community markets in parks should be expanded across the city.
“People are becoming more conscious about what they eat. Initiatives like this encourage healthier choices and also bring the community together,” he said.
The market featured 20 selected vendors offering fresh fruits and vegetables, homemade bakery items, artisanal food products, and high-quality cheese.
Shoppers were seen interacting directly with vendors, discussing product quality and preparation methods, which many said added to their confidence in the items being sold. Parents visiting the market praised the arrangements made for children.
“Our children enjoyed the activities while we shopped peacefully,” said Sara Malik, who visited the market with her family. “It feels safe, organized, and relaxing — unlike crowded markets.”
Visitors also appreciated the well-managed setup, soft background music, and the strict implementation of a zero-littering policy. Many citizens said such arrangements set a positive example for maintaining cleanliness in public places.
When contacted, Chief Officer Islamabad Metropolitan Corporation (MCI) Dr Anam Fatima told APP the initiative aimed to promote parks as shared community spaces and to respond to growing public awareness regarding healthy lifestyles.
She said the success of the first organic market demonstrated strong citizen interest and support.
According to Chairman Capital Development Authority (CDA) and Chief Commissioner Islamabad Muhammad Ali Randhawa, the organic community market was designed to provide citizens access to healthy products close to their homes.
To a query, he added that authorities plan to organize similar markets in other sectors of the city so that more residents can benefit.
The enthusiastic public response to the first organic community market has reinforced calls from citizens for regular, neighborhood-based healthy markets, signalling a shift in urban preferences towards wellness, sustainability, and community-centered living in Islamabad.