Perishable food items become dearer

Milk, vegetable, meat, fruit sellers defy official rates

LAHORE:

The prices of perishable goods saw significant increases during the past week, while the district authorities failed to enforce measures to protect the consumers.

A market survey showed that violations of the official price list were widespread throughout the provincial capital, with many sellers disregarding regulated rates. ' The trend extended beyond fruits and vegetables, as milk and meat sellers also ignored the official price lists without fear of consequences. Some sellers and citizens alleged bribery for getting a free hand in charging prices.

Several consumers also criticised the district administration officials of prioritising social media appearances over effective governance.

On Sunday, the official price of live chicken was set between Rs381-395 per kg but it was sold at Rs450-500 in different areas. Chicken meat, officially priced at Rs572, was sold for as much as Rs800 per kg. The price of potatoes (sugar-free variety) was officially reduced by Rs6 per kg to Rs76-82, but sold at Rs150 per kg. Other grades were also sold far above the official prices.

Onions saw a price hike of Rs5 per kg, with the A-grade variety officially priced at Rs135-145 but sold for Rs180-200.Tomato prices remained officially unchanged at Rs97-105, yet were sold for Rs180-200 per kg. The price of garlic and ginger, both local and imported varieties, continued to exceed the official rates.

Cucumbers, brinjals, bitter gourd, spinach and zucchinis also saw significant price increases with sellers ignoring the official rates. Several other vegetables, including pumpkins, green chilies and capsicum, experienced price hikes as well. Among fruits, mango prices increased by Rs2 per kg, officially priced at Rs76-80 per kg but sold for Rs250. The price of bananas, guavas and pomegranates also rose significantly, with vendors selling the items well above the official rates.

The district administration's failure to implement its pricing policies exacerbated the burden on consumers, who continued to bear the brunt of inflated prices of essential goods.