SUKKUR:
Pakistan which was once known as one of the largest wheat producers in the world is now facing one of the worst food crises in years. Most parts of the country have reported flour shortages with prices reaching as high as Rs3,000 per bag. This has raised agitation among the low-income groups who are forced to stand in lines for hours to get subsidised flour.
Amid rising food insecurity, prices of other food items and essentials are skyrocketing. Daily wagers and salaried individuals are finding it increasingly difficult to meet their needs as their monthly expenses exceed their income. The economy is consistently worsening, but the politicians seem to be uninterested in addressing the situation.
Pakistan is known as the junction of the Asian continent due to its location. The country has varying terrains and assets in the form of ports, motorways, etc. Unfortunately, we have failed to benefit from our abundance of resources due to the mismanagement and corruption of those at the helm. Today, the country is faced with the depletion of several resources including natural gas and water. The country is entangled in many challenges, which are intensifying problems for both the government and the public. Our politicians must realise that they need to prioritise the country’s well-being over their own power struggle. They must make strong decisions to curb inflation and reduce corruption within government departments to put the country on the path to recovery.
Published in The Express Tribune, January 16th, 2023.
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