Fruit, vegetable prices surge in Vehari amid official negligence

Citizens struggle with escalating rates in wholesale markets

VEHARI:

The prices of fruits and vegetables in Vehari and its surrounding areas have surged dramatically, with citizens blaming the district administration's negligence and lack of oversight for the steep increases.

In the main vegetable and fruit market, local resident Tahir Shahzad expressed frustration, stating, "We are already struggling with inflation and poverty, yet the senior officials of the administration have turned a blind eye to the market. Shopkeepers are not displaying the official rate lists, and as a result, they are charging whatever prices they want."

Abbas Chaudhry, another resident, shared his recent experience in the market: "I bought okra yesterday at Rs60 per kg, but today it's being sold for Rs80 per kg, even though the official rate list still lists it at Rs60. Tomatoes, which were Rs98 to Rs100 per kg yesterday, are now Rs120 per kg, despite the official rate being Rs98."

Chaudhry pointed out that the lack of visible rate lists prevents customers from challenging the inflated prices.

Khawar, another market-goer, added that the situation has worsened over the past six months. "Previously, administration officers would regularly visit the market, ensuring that prices were reasonable. But now, no officers have come to check the market, and shopkeepers are taking advantage of this absence by setting their own prices, further burdening the poor."

Citizens also criticized the Price Control Committee, alleging that its officers have failed to enforce pricing regulations.

They have called on the Punjab chief minister, the agriculture secretary, the Multan commissioner and other relevant officials to take immediate action to regulate prices and alleviate the financial strain on the public.

In response to the outcry, the Vehari deputy commissioner stated that more than 80 price control magistrates are actively working to control inflation across the district.