Rampant profiteering: Citizens displeased after prices of essentials skyrocket

GUJRANWALA: The prices of many essential commodities skyrocketed the day before Eidul Azha in open markets across Gujranwala and other districts.

A large number of citizens complained that the district administration lost control over commodity prices, profiteering and hoarding.

A random market survey by Express News revealed that vegetables and fruits were being sold in the market on higher rates as compared to the prices set by the district administration.

Many retailers had displayed official price lists to avoid being fined by officials. Yet, they still continued to overcharge customers.

Citizens told Express News that despite charging higher prices, vendors and shopkeepers were not selling quality food products, fruits and vegetables. They added that most of the vegetables and fruits failed to meet quality requirements.

Officials and magistrates paid visits to markets but failed to enforce their writ, while shopkeepers continued to sell items at increased rates.

Published in The Express Tribune, August 22^nd, 2018.