KARACHI:
Following the fuel and energy price hikes, prices of daily necessities such as milk, vegetables, sugar, etc have also surged. However, people’s salaries or income have remained low, which is reducing their purchasing power and compelling them to cut their expenses. Daily wagers and domestic staff who are already vulnerable will be forced to work more and are likely to face exploitation just to earn a little bit more to meet their needs. Marginalised and vulnerable groups are at the risk of being pushed into the informal sector and undertaking jobs that can threaten their wellbeing and livelihoods.
Low and middle-income households are also compelled to pick and choose between what necessities to prioritise. Many have contemplated pulling their children out of school amid constant price hikes as they can no longer afford to pay school fees along with other expenses such as coursebooks. Public transporters are charging extortionate fares further burdening the people. Some people have resorted to walking long distances whilst others have restricted themselves to a single meal per day to save money. Despite, long power outages across the country, utility providers are sending heavy electricity bills. This is completely unjust, and the relevant authorities must investigate this at their earliest.
In addition, dishonest retailers have taken this as an opportunity to hoard items, create artificial shortages, and charge high prices for essential commodities. The government must take strict action against retailers who are exploiting consumers and issue standardised prices for essential items. During this difficult time, the government should take constructive measures to offer relief to the inflation-stricken vulnerable population.
Saba Hassan
Chitral
Published in The Express Tribune, June 22nd, 2022.
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