Food Prices Surge Across Pakistan Ahead of Ramadan

As Ramadan approaches, food prices across Pakistan have soared, making essential items unaffordable for many citizens. Fruits, vegetables, and meat prices have skyrocketed despite government’s official price lists, leaving consumers frustrated over unchecked inflation. Steep rise in prices over just a few days has worsened public concerns.

Fruit and Vegetable Prices Climb in Lahore

Markets and bazaars in Lahore are selling essential food items at rates well above official prices:

• Apples: Official price Rs305 per kg, market price Rs335 per kg
• Bananas: Official price Rs270 per dozen, market price Rs300 per dozen
• Guavas: Official price Rs220 per kg, market price Rs250 per kg
• Tomatoes: Selling at Rs20 per kg more than official rate
• Ginger: Official price Rs340 per kg, market price Rs370 per kg
• Garlic: Official price Rs530 per kg, market price Rs600 per kg

Despite government’s pricing regulations, vendors continue to charge inflated rates, adding to financial burden of consumers.

Rawalpindi Faces Similar Price Hikes

Rawalpindi residents are also struggling with increased fruit prices:

• Apples: Rs320 per kg
• Guavas: Rs210 per kg
• Strawberries: Rs330 per kg
• Bananas: Rs260 per dozen
• Cantaloupe: Rs290 per kg
• Dates: Increased from Rs450 to Rs650 per kg

Also Read: Green Tea vs. Black Tea: Which One is Healthier?

Meat and Grocery Prices Surge in Sukkur

In Sukkur, chicken and egg prices have seen a sharp rise:

• Chicken meat: Increased from Rs670 per kg to Rs760 per kg within days
• Eggs: Rose from Rs200 to Rs290 per dozen

Consumers are finding it increasingly difficult to manage their grocery expenses as Ramadan nears. Many have voiced their frustration and urged government to take immediate action against price gouging.

Public Demand for Action

Shoppers across the country are raising concerns over inflation, questioning why prices spike before Ramadan each year. “Everything is becoming expensive; may God have mercy,” said one buyer. Another remarked, “Inflation before Ramadan has become a norm in Pakistan.”

Citizens demand strict measures to control prices and prevent vendors from exploiting festive season. Authorities must step up enforcement to ensure food remains affordable during the holy month.