There is a recurring trend in major cities of Pakistan: whenever there is high demand for essential goods, their prices automatically rise beyond expectations. For instance, during the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020, people rushed to buy face masks and hand sanitisers which consequently led to their prices skyrocketing. Similar to that, every year during Ramazan the price surge for fruits and vegetables is dreadfully significant.
However, a positive step has been taken in some areas where the government has established monitoring committees to regulate prices and ensure that essential items are sold at subsidised rates. Recently in Islamabad, the monitoring committee took strict action by arresting 117 shopkeepers and vendors for overcharging during Ramazan. Such measures should be consistently enforced across the country to prevent exploitation and provide relief to the public.
Hira Ayaz
Islamabad
