PESHAWAR: Tomato prices have risen sharply once again in Peshawar, with the district administration increasing the official retail price by Rs45 per kilogram amid continued inflation in food commodities.
According to the revised official price list, the government-set rate for tomatoes has been raised from Rs225 to Rs270 per kg.
Despite the revised official rates, consumers say little relief has been provided, as tomatoes are being sold well above the notified price in most markets across the city.
Market sources said the vegetable is retailing between Rs350 and Rs370 per kg in various localities, placing an additional financial burden on households.
Residents complained that the official price list exists only on paper, alleging that many retailers continue to charge prices at their own discretion.
They urged the district administration and relevant authorities to ensure strict enforcement of official rates and curb overcharging.
Vegetable vendors, however, attributed the price hike to higher wholesale prices, rising transportation costs from other cities and increased demand.
They maintained that selling tomatoes at the official rate is not commercially viable when wholesale market prices remain elevated.
Market observers said the continued volatility in vegetable and food prices is putting increasing pressure on household budgets, calling on the authorities to strengthen price monitoring and take effective action against hoarding and profiteering.
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