PESHAWAR (Kashifuddin Syed): A massive inflationary wave has gripped the provincial capital just days before Eid, as the prices of essential commodities and daily necessities witnessed a sharp increase in the city, further compounding the financial woes of the public.
According to market sources, the price of chicken has surged to Rs 395 per kg, up from its previous rate of Rs 360. The hike is not limited to poultry, as vegetable and fruit prices have also skyrocketed.
In the local markets, tomatoes are being sold at Rs 120 per kg, while potatoes are priced at Rs 70 to Rs 110 per kg. Other seasonal vegetables have become increasingly unaffordable, with okra reaching Rs 300 per kg and lemons being sold at a staggering Rs 650 per kg.
The fruit market mirrors this trend, with Iranian apples reaching Rs 500 per kg, grapes priced at Rs 600 per kg, and oranges (Malta) being sold for Rs 600 per dozen.
Citizens expressed deep concern over the situation, stating that the inflationary storm has severely dented the budgets of the middle and lower-income classes, directly impacting their ability to carry out Eid shopping.
Residents have appealed to the district administration to take immediate and effective steps to control price hikes and ensure the availability of items at official rates.
