Lahore residents are facing rising costs for fruits, vegetables, and poultry as Ramazan approaches, putting additional strain on household budgets. Consumers have complained that official price lists are failing to control profiteering by suppliers and middlemen.
Market observers report that in the days leading up to the fasting month, suppliers have deliberately tightened stock, pushing prices significantly above government-fixed rates. The situation has left shoppers struggling to afford basic food items amid already rising living costs.
Bananas, officially capped at Rs200–230 per dozen for premium quality, are now being sold for up to Rs350 in local markets. Guava prices have also risen sharply, reaching Rs250 per kilogram in several areas. These spikes have highlighted gaps between official controls and real market conditions.
Despite government attempts to reduce poultry rates, chicken remains largely unavailable at official prices. Retail chicken now sells for around Rs550 per kilogram in many neighborhoods, while boneless chicken prices remain high, further burdening families preparing for the holy month.
Shoppers and consumer rights advocates have called for stricter enforcement of price regulations and closer monitoring of markets to prevent exploitation. Many argue that timely intervention is necessary to ensure that families can afford essential items during Ramazan.
Authorities are being urged to address these price discrepancies before the start of Ramazan, ensuring that basic food items remain accessible to all segments of the population. Without intervention, the ongoing price surge could worsen financial pressure on households already struggling with inflation.
