RAWALPINDI:
The wave of inflation that began with the New Year shows no signs of abating, leaving price control magistrates seemingly powerless to curb rising costs. Even Sunday markets, traditionally seen as a relief for consumers, have been dragged down by the current inflation.
In the open market, live chicken sells for Rs 450 per kilogram, and chicken meat sells for Rs 700 per kilogram.
Eggs are retailing at Rs 301 per dozen, while lamb has soared to Rs 2,200 per kilogram and beef at Rs 1,400 per kilogram.
Prices of essential commodities have also increased sharply: chickpeas and lentils are sold at Rs 390 per kilogram, split black gram at Rs 600 per kilogram, unpackaged milk at Rs 220 per liter, yogurt at Rs 240 per kilogram , cooking oil at Rs 500 per liter and ghee at Rs 490. per kilogram.
Vegetables have not been spared from the inflationary spiral: potatoes at 120 rupees per kilogram, onions at 170 rupees per kilogram and tomatoes at 180 rupees per kilogram.
Garlic is sold at Rs 700 per kilogram, ginger at Rs 550 per kilogram, green chillies at Rs 200 per kilogram, peas at Rs 150 per kilogram, taro root at Rs 190 per kilogram, radishes at Rs 40 per kilogram. per kilogram, carrots at 60 rupees per kilogram and lemons at 120 rupees. per kilogram, bitter gourd at Rs 150 per kilogram, cauliflower at Rs 100 per kilogram and pumpkins at Rs 140 per kilogram.
Fruit prices have also increased with apples being priced at Rs 250-350 per kilogram, pomegranates at Rs 350-400 per kilogram and bananas at Rs 150-170 per dozen. Sweet lemons sell for Rs 200 to Rs 250 a dozen, oranges for Rs 500 a dozen and guavas for Rs 200 a kilogram.
The relentless rise in prices has left citizens struggling to manage their household expenses, with no immediate relief in sight.
