Soaring Prices of Fruits and Vegetables Hit Pakistani Households

Pakistan is currently grappling with an alarming surge in inflation, as the prices of essential commodities continue to skyrocket. According to recent reports, fruit prices have surged to 400 PKR per kilogram, while vegetable prices have reached an unprecedented 800 PKR per kilogram. In addition, the costs of flour and sugar have increased by 20 PKR per kilogram, and the price of open milk has risen to 240 PKR per liter.

Despite claims by the federal and Punjab governments, led by the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), of reducing inflation, the reality for many Pakistani households is quite different. Reports indicate that the prices of vegetables, fruits, milk, flour, sugar, and other essential food items have spiraled out of control.

Specifically, the cost of potatoes has reached 100 PKR per kilogram, onions 120 PKR, okra 250 PKR, ginger 800 PKR, and garlic 600 PKR. Other items such as green peas and capsicum are selling for 400 PKR and 250 PKR per kilogram, respectively. Meanwhile, the price of grapes has hit 400 PKR per kilogram, and plums and blackberries are now 300 PKR per kilogram.

The prices of flour, sugar, and tea have also seen significant increases. Sugar now costs 165 PKR per kilogram, and government-subsidized flour, which was priced at 90 PKR per kilogram, is being sold at 110 PKR.

The Pakistan Bureau of Statistics has reported a continuous rise in inflation for the third consecutive week. Following the implementation of the federal budget for the fiscal year 2024-25, the inflation rate has been steadily increasing. The latest data indicates a 0.76% rise in weekly inflation, with the annual inflation rate now at 24.36%. Over the past week, the prices of 29 essential items have increased, while only five items have seen a decrease.

The ongoing inflation crisis has significantly impacted the cost of living in Pakistan, leaving many households struggling to afford basic necessities. The government faces mounting pressure to address the situation and implement effective measures to stabilize prices and relieve the burden on its citizens.