Soaring beef, chicken prices: People demand action against profiteers

MINGORA: Despite the end of Ramazan and Eid festivities, the prices of essential food items such as beef and chicken have not come down in Swat, prompting residents to demand action against profiteers.

While price hike during Ramazan was expected, residents had hoped for some relief after Eid. However, in various markets across Swat, beef is being sold at Rs1,200 per kilogram, while chicken prices have surged to Rs800 per kilogram - a rate many say was far beyond their means.

Residents expressed anger over what they described as the government’s inaction.“There’s been no difference in prices after Ramazan,” said one citizen. “The government should take measures to ensure prices are regulated. Food authority officials come for inspections, but nothing changes.”

Another frustrated buyer claimed, “Chicken is being sold at Rs1,800, and beef for Rs1,400 per kilogram - how are poor people supposed to afford this?”

On the other hand, butchers and poultry sellers argued that they were receiving animals and poultry at inflated wholesale prices, forcing them to pass on the burden to customers.Despite this justification, the citizens demanded the government, particularly the district administration and price control committees to ensure compliance with the official rate-list.

“The people are bearing the brunt of inflation. I urge people to stop buying meat and chicken until prices come down,” a citizen said.Another questioned the role of government authorities: “If official rate lists exist, why are vendors allowed to charge so much? No one is holding them accountable.”