Markets closure triggers price hike

Due to the four-day closure of wholesale and commission markets on the eve of Eidul Azha, the supply chain of vegetables and fruits was disrupted, causing prices to spiral completely out of control in the twin cities of Rawalpindi and Islamabad.

With all 60 price control magistrates of Rawalpindi also on holiday, shopkeepers were given a free hand to charge arbitrary rates without oversight.

The closure of tandoors, roadside eateries, fruit and vegetable carts, and small shops further added to the public's hardship, making even basic food and bread difficult to access. Throughout all three days of Eidul Azha, fruit and vegetable prices in the open market remained at record highs.

Coriander, which is often given for free with purchases, was being sold for Rs50–70 per bunch. Vendors charged Rs120 per kg for onions, Rs100 per kg for potatoes, Rs700 per kg for lemons, Rs100 per kg for tomatoes, Rs250–350 per kg for apples, Rs250–300 per dozen for bananas, Rs300 per kg for mangoes, Rs350 per kg for peaches, Rs70 per kg for watermelon, Rs110 per kg for melons, Rs300 per kg for loquat, Rs450 per box for cherries, and Rs300 per kg for falsa (grewia).

Fresh milk was sold for Rs240 per litre, yogurt Rs250 per kg, and sugar Rs190 per kg.

From today (Tuesday), all wholesale markets and mandi operations are set to resume.