PESHAWAR: As Muslims around the world begin observing the holy month of Ramadan, the prices of essential food items in Pakistan have seen a surge, leaving many consumers struggling to afford them. The unchecked rise in food item prices makes it difficult for many households to observe the traditional iftar and sehri meals during the month of fasting.
During a visit to the markets in Peshawar, the capital city of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), it was found that the prices of essential food items have continued to surge with each passing day in the holy month. Live chicken is now priced at Rs350 per kilogram, and rice has increased by Rs70 per kilogram to reach Rs335 per kilogram. Other food items, including split chickpeas, beans, spices, and oil, have also seen a price surge, making them unaffordable for many consumers.
A vendor in the market shared that split chickpeas (chana dal) started selling at Rs220 to Rs260 per kilogram, while the price of beans increased by Rs60 per kilogram, with rates jumping from Rs281 to Rs339 per kilogram. The price of spices surged from Rs150 to Rs200 per kilogram, while the cost of oil and ghee also surged by Rs62 per kg.
Vegetables and fruits have also become unaffordable for many households. Ginseng is being sold at Rs620 and garlic at Rs360 per kilogram. Peas cost Rs200, Zucchini Rs170, Arvi Rs180, green capsicum Rs150 rupees, and tomato Rs120 per kilogram. The rates of fruits have also seen an increase. Oranges are priced at Rs440 per dozen, banana at Rs300 per dozen, oranges at Rs400 per dozen, pomegranate Rs400, Iranian apple at Rs340 per kilogram, Kohati guava at Rs350, and strawberry costs Rs280 per kilogram.
The skyrocketing price hike has also impacted the meat market, with beef being sold for Rs700 per kilogram before Ramadan but is now priced at Rs800 and Rs1,000 per kilogram, while the rates of mutton were increased from Rs1,400 to Rs1,600 per kilogram; thereby increasing to Rs1,800 per kilogram.
Authorities failed to control surging prices
Many shopkeepers have been charging rates of their choice without any checks or penalties. The rates issued by the local administration do not seem to have any impact on the market. A butcher in the local market expressed dissatisfaction with the rates issued by the district administration, saying that they do not suit them.
To a question about the imposition of fines and raids from the local administration officials, he replied that most officials did not come inside the market to check rates during the recent rain due to heavy mud-stranded water; therefore, the shopkeepers began charging rates of their own choice.
The unchecked rise in prices of essential food items during Ramadan is a serious concern for many households. The authorities must take swift action to ensure that the prices are regulated and consumers are not exploited during the holy month.
