Boot polishing rates increase amid inflation

The economic downturn has affected various aspects of life, including seemingly small expenses like shoe polishing. The cost of shoe polishing as well as stitching rates have increased.

Basic polishing and minor stitching can now cost up to Rs 200. In the open market, boot polishing fee for common citizens has increased from Rs30 to Rs50. On the other hand, the polishing fee for large boots used by police and government officials has been hiked to Rs70. Additionally, a special fee is charged for applying poor polish on boots.

Boot polishing fees vary across different areas, with Kacheri district charging a higher rate of Rs60 for polishing services.

Rukhsar Khan, a boot polishing worker in Kacheri district, lamented that the price of polish has skyrocketed by 50%. The cost of a high-quality commercial big box of polish has surged from Rs500 to Rs700 and even Rs800 in some cases. In contrast, a lower quality, locally manufactured box of polish is available for Rs600. However, this subpar polish damages boots, causing them to absorb dirt and deteriorate quickly. Moreover, it can even stain clothing, such as a shalwar or trousers.

The price of polishing brushes has also increased to Rs600. As a result, the days of getting a boot polished for Rs30 are gone. The cost of sewing thread has also increased, which further contributes to the hike in polishing and shoe stitching prices.