Food prices soar in Rawalpindi as authorities turn a blind eye

Rawalpindi : The prices of essential food items, particularly chicken, beef, mutton, and vegetables, have skyrocketed, with retailers charging exorbitant profits—some exceeding 100 per cent. Meanwhile, local administration officials continue to ignore the crisis, failing to take any action against market manipulators.

On Sunday, chicken meat prices in open market shops surged to an all-time high, making it the most expensive in the country’s history. A kilogram of chicken meat was being sold for Rs950 to Rs1,000, while mutton reached Rs3,000 per kg and beef soared to Rs2,000 per kg. Vegetables, too, saw an unprecedented price hike. Tomatoes, previously sold at Rs70 per kg, have now reached Rs180 per kg, while onions are being sold for Rs80 per kg.

The situation has worsened due to the absence of regulatory oversight. All 60 price control magistrates have gone on Eid leave, and the so-called Ramazan Sasta Bazaars have shut down, allowing retailers to manipulate prices at will. In the wholesale market, the price of chicken skyrocketed to Rs22,000 per 40 kg, compared to its usual range of Rs13,000 to Rs15,000. In retail markets, live chicken is being sold at Rs600 per kg, while chicken meat is priced at Rs950 to Rs1,000 per kg, making it unaffordable for many consumers.

According to Poultry Association Vice President Khurshid Abbasi, the price spike is due to low supply and a demand three times higher than usual. He assured that prices would drop once the supply situation improves. However, residents of Rawalpindi and Islamabad believe otherwise, accusing government officials of having vested interests in the poultry business and deliberately orchestrating the price hike.

Meanwhile, fruit and vegetable prices have also spiralled out of control, with lemons being sold at Rs350 per kg, coriander (small bunch) at Rs50, and bananas at Rs350 per dozen. Similarly, apples are priced at Rs400 per kg, while oranges cost Rs600 per dozen. The prices of pomegranates and grapes have also surged, reaching Rs400 per kg and Rs350-500 per kg, respectively, adding to the financial burden on consumers. Residents expressed their frustration, stating that despite the severe inflation, price control authorities—including the deputy commissioner and assistant commissioners—remain silent, leaving consumers at the mercy of profiteers. Protesters strongly criticized the Punjab government for its inaction over the past two years, demanding immediate intervention to curb the worsening crisis.