RAHIM YAR KHAN:
Wheat shortages and stampedes at flour distribution points that claimed the lives of many poor men and women signal a worsening food crisis. Surging inflation has raised challenges for middle and low-income groups creating a sense of helplessness and desperation. Price increases in basic commodities due to Ramazan have further amplified the problem.
Fuel price hikes have resulted in an increase in public transport fares. Hospitals and pharmacies have reported medical equipment and medicine shortages due to import bans and stalled cargo. Retailers and manufacturers have reported shortages of many items including raw materials, lentils, poultry feed, etc. This has raised the risk of a major food crisis. The public is in constant distress as they cannot afford alternative expensive items. People have been forced to take their children out of school and send them to work instead to improve household incomes. The worsening economic situation is threatening social stability and peace. As people continue to struggle, social evils such as crimes, corruption, and violence, are expected to rise.
The government has still not reached an agreement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF). If it fails to reach an agreement, a debt default will be disastrous. All stakeholders need to acknowledge the gravity of the ensuing crisis and urgently act to address the manifold problems facing the country. The government needs to revive the economy, ensure basic items such as flour are widely available, and restore stability. Otherwise, we will be faced with major turmoil.
Published in The Express Tribune, April 17th, 2023.
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