Runaway prices show no signs of slowing down

The relentless wave of inflation in the open market has pushed the public to the brink, leaving many struggling to make ends meet. Triggered by the continuous rise in petroleum product prices, the surge in costs has shown no signs of slowing down.

Despite the presence of 60 price control magistrates in the Rawalpindi district, their focus remains limited to penalising small shopkeepers and street vendors.

Meanwhile, wholesale dealers, who play a significant role in driving up prices, operate without any checks, exacerbating the situation.

Prices of essential commodities in the open market have soared to record highs.

Live chicken is being sold at Rs430 per kilogramme, chicken meat at Rs650, mutton at Rs2,200, and beef at Rs1,400 per kilogramme.

Pulses and grains have also seen sharp hikes, with gram pulses priced at Rs400 per kilogramme, rice at Rs420, lentils at Rs550, and cooking oil ranging from Rs550 to Rs580 per litre. The prices of vegetables and fruits have similarly skyrocketed.

Potatoes are being sold at Rs110 per kilogramme, onions at Rs130, tomatoes at Rs150, garlic at Rs650, and ginger at Rs500 per kilogramme.