Demand And Supply Mismatch: Sabzi Mandi traders on strike

KARACHI: Citizens should brace themselves for an increase in prices of vegetables from today, as traders and wholesalers of Sabzi Mandi, along the National Highway, will observe a strike against the killing of Babar Hayat, a trader, and increased incidents of robberies. “Vendors in the city have already stocked up on fruits and vegetables and will probably sell them at double their usual rates,” said Wholesale Vegetable Welfare Association general secretary Rauf Tanoli. “It’s up to the government to accept our demands, after which we will reopen the wholesale market.” Traders have called for the removal of police officials for their alleged involvement with criminals. Nearly 14,000 to 15,000 tonnes of fruits and vegetables arrive in Karachi every day, through 700 to 800 trucks. The activity provides livelihood for approximately 100,000 people.

Published in The Express Tribune, April 26^th, 2012.