Price control efforts fail

RAWALPINDI:

The district administration's 60 price control magistrates and assistant commissioners seem helpless in tackling the soaring cost of essential commodities.

Ramazan bazaars, once a source of relief for the public, have lost their purpose due to a lack of subsidies, while utility stores across the city stand deserted because there are no discount packages this year.

The situation has forced people to boycott fruits altogether as prices spiral beyond their reach.

At present, sugar is being sold for Rs170 per kg, white chickpeas at Rs400 per kg, and lentils at rates that continue to pinch consumers' pockets.

Meat prices are no different, with chicken meat at Rs780 per kg, mutton at an eye-watering Rs2,400 per kg, and beef at Rs1,400 per kg. Dairy products have also seen a surge, with milk costing Rs220 per litre and yogurt selling for Rs240 per kg.

Fruit and vegetable prices have skyrocketed, making even the most basic produce a luxury.

Bananas are going for Rs300 per dozen, oranges for Rs600 per dozen, and dates range from Rs700 to Rs1,600 per kg.

Even traditional Ramazan snacks aren't spared, with samosas costing Rs600 per dozen, pakoras ranging from Rs650 to Rs700 per kg, and kachori priced at Rs180.

With no relief in sight, citizens are growing increasingly frustrated, demanding stricter price regulations and immediate government intervention.