PESHAWAR: The recent surge in chicken prices has irked Peshawar residents, who demanded the provincial government control it and ensure the availability of chicken at the officially approved rate.
In Peshawar, the prices of chicken per kilogram (kg) have increased to record 425 rupees per kilogram on Monday against Sunday’s prices of 330 rupees per kg, which displeased consumers.
Ehtisham Qasier, professor by profession and a resident of Nowshehra, said that he came to Peshawar hoping to purchase ten chickens for a party at home but was astonished to learn that its rates soared to record 425 rupees per kg today.
He said it was the duty of district administration to control rates of chickens, meat, and eggs in local markets as the important commodities were going beyond the reach of the poor people.
The consumers demanded the provincial government direct the rate magistrates to visit markets and ensure the trade of the commodity at the government’s prescribed price.
Chicken dealers
A local chicken dealer Masat Khan said that the chicken shortage due to last year’s massive flood had caused a surge of chicken.
He said the rates of chicken fodder and other necessities for the business have also contributed to the rise in chickens rate in Peshawar, Nowshera, Mardan, Charsadda, and Swabi districts.
