Not everyones’ cup of tea

Soaring costs affect tea sale as citizens forego favourite beverage

MULTAN:

In the midst of an unrelenting wave of inflation, the cherished cup of tea has become an unaffordable luxury for much the city’s population.

Just one year ago, the price of tea was mere Rs35 per cup. It has now nearly doubled, at a price of Rs60. This surge in the cost of tea has left citizens reeling from high inflation, as have increases in the prices of other essentials.

As the cost of living continues to surge, citizens find themselves grappling with the harsh reality of dwindling purchasing power. The rising prices of essential commodities, including milk, gas and other kitchen staples, have created a domino effect, leading to exorbitant prices for a simple cup of tea.

The once-common ritual of sipping tea at a local stall or the office is becoming a rare luxury, said government staffer Arshid Malik. At the workplace, managing tea amid the presence of colleagues and friends is challenging due to rising inflation, he added.

Muhammad Mazhar, the owner of a tea stall, recalled that he used to sell 300 cups of tea in a single day of business. However, the sale of tea has fallen remarkably to between 180 and 190 tea cups.

"I am considering procuring smaller cups to offer tea at more reasonable rates to our valued patrons," Mazhar remarked. The consequences of this tea price hike are also evident at many other tea stalls, where sales have plummeted, Mazhar claimed.

Tea stall owners, once accustomed to brisk business, now find themselves in a difficult situation as customers, opt against buying tea due to soaring prices. Another citizen, Malik Arif, also expressed concern about the rising cost of tea in the city.

"The economic strain on individuals and small businesses reflects the larger economic challenge. The situation underscores the urgent need for measures to combat inflation and make essential items more accessible to the public, he concluded.

Published in The Express Tribune, September 21^st, 2023.