Rising prices spark public outcry in capital

Residents express frustration over inflated prices & poor quality of essential goods

ISLAMABAD:

Residents of the federal capital are increasingly frustrated by inflated prices and compromised quality of essential goods due to hoarding by local vendors. Sail Hussain, a resident of the Bari Imam area, shared concerns with the media, stating that shopkeepers set their own prices for everyday items such as vegetables, fruits, milk, and meat.

"In our area, each shop has different prices," he explained. "One shop sells milk for Rs250 per litre, claiming it's pure, while others offer it for Rs200, stating theirs is diluted." This disparity leaves consumers confused and vulnerable to vendor exploitation.

In Aabpara Market, a meat seller justified his higher prices by citing increased rent costs. "We sell fresh meat," he said, "while others sell older meat or water it down to increase weight." Such justifications exacerbate public concerns about price gouging and the authenticity of products.

In response to these issues, the ICT administration has been active in enforcing price controls. Recently, Pothohar Assistant Commissioner Aneeq Anwar led raids in a local vegetable market, resulting in the arrest of 20 shopkeepers for charging above official rates. Deputy Commissioner Irfan Memon emphasised the importance of adhering to set prices, stating, "Follow the official price list released daily for urban food items."

However, some citizens have faced unintended consequences from these enforcement efforts. Muhammad Sharafat, a labourer, was detained while sitting near a shop during one of the raids, leaving his family in distress. His family reported that he has been in custody for two days, causing significant financial and emotional strain, as he is the sole breadwinner.