Profiteering persists despite digital initiative

LAHORE:

Despite the availability of digital complaint channels, including the Qeemat Punjab App, citizens continue to face inflated prices of essential commodities.

Recent data reveals that the Qeemat Punjab App has received 100,008 complaints about overpricing.

Officials claim that 99,436 of the complaints have been resolved. However, complaints about overcharging persist.

During a recent progress review meeting, officials highlighted the app's integration with the Price Magistrate App, enabling food inspectors to monitor prices and impose fines on violations.

According to the Punjab Information Technology Board (PITB), during over 14.5 million inspections conducted, Rs112 million in penalties was imposed for overpricing through e-Pay Punjab.

PITB Chairman Faisal Yousaf described the Qeemat Punjab App as an "effective tool" in the district administration's efforts to manage price control. He stated, "Qeemat Punjab App has provided valuable relief to the citizens in purchasing food items as the prices of essential commodities like meat, vegetables, pulses, etc, can easily be verified. In case a shopkeeper is charging more than the price described on the app or set by the market, users can file a complaint."

However, the effectiveness of the digital initiatives contrasts with the ground realities, as citizens continue to suffer from overpricing and the sale of substandard items.

This week, significant price hikes were recorded for perishable goods, particularly vegetables, alongside blatant overcharging by sellers.

Live chicken, despite an official price reduction of Rs20 per kg to Rs284–298, was sold at Rs390–430 per kg in the city. Tomatoes witnessed a steep increase, with A-grade prices rising by Rs44 per kg to Rs143–150, while market rates reached Rs250 per kg. Garlic prices also surged.

In the fruit market, similar patterns emerged.