As the holy month of Ramadan begins, the people of Lahore are struggling with a steep rise in the prices of essential food items. The cost of vegetables, fruits, and meat has surged, making it difficult for many families to afford basic groceries. Citizens are urging the authorities to take strict action against price hikes and ensure that essential food remains within reach for everyone.
The price of vegetables has nearly doubled in many cases. Potatoes, which were previously available for Rs45 per kilogram, are now being sold for Rs80 to Rs100. Onions have jumped from Rs70 to Rs120 per kilogram, while tomatoes, which used to cost Rs40, are now priced at Rs100 per kilogram. The cost of garlic has risen sharply from Rs600 to Rs800 per kilogram, and ginger has also become expensive, increasing from Rs370 to Rs600 per kilogram. Other vegetables such as bell peppers, okra, and bitter gourd are also being sold at higher rates, ranging from Rs100 to Rs300 per kilogram.
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Fruits, which are an essential part of iftar meals, have also become unaffordable for many people. Apples now cost Rs400 per kilogram, while a dozen bananas are being sold for Rs300. The price of dates, which are commonly used to break the fast, has soared to Rs1,000 per kilogram. Melons, a popular choice during Ramadan, are now priced between Rs250 and Rs300 each.
The rising cost of meat has further added to the financial burden on families. Chicken is now being sold for Rs625 per kilogram, while mutton has reached an alarming price of Rs2,500 per kilogram. The price of beef has also increased significantly, now selling for Rs1,200 per kilogram.
As inflation continues to rise at the start of Ramadan, many residents are struggling to manage their household budgets. Citizens are urging the Punjab government to take immediate action to control prices and prevent profiteering. They are demanding strict monitoring of the markets to ensure that food items remain affordable during this important month. The authorities must step in to provide relief to the people and stabilize food prices before the situation worsens.
