The Rawalpindi Naan Bakers Association has warned that tandoors across the city could shut down after August 14. The warning comes over the suspension of subsidised flour supplies.
According to the association, the Food Department has stopped supplying government-allotted flour to naan bakers. The decision has created serious difficulties for tandoor owners across Rawalpindi.
The association said flour depots designated for local bakers have remained closed for around two weeks. It claimed that no clear explanation has been provided by the deputy commissioner’s office.
Bakers said they are now purchasing flour from the open market at significantly higher prices. They warned that these costs make it difficult to sell naan and other bread products at official rates.
According to the association, only around 200 of Rawalpindi’s 4,600 naan bakers were receiving government flour before the supply was suspended. The association has demanded immediate restoration of the subsidised supply.
Sources have also alleged that government-supplied cheap flour was being sold outside the official distribution system. The claims have added to concerns surrounding the availability and distribution of subsidised flour.
Association president Shafique Qureshi said the situation could force tandoor owners to close their businesses. He warned that the shutdown could begin after August 14 if the flour supply is not restored.
The association has urged authorities to resolve the issue before the deadline. Bakers say continued suspension of subsidised flour could increase their operating costs further.
The dispute could also affect consumers if tandoors across the city stop operating. Naan is a daily food item for many households, particularly in urban areas.
Authorities have yet to announce a clear timeline for restoring the flour supply. The association is waiting for government action before deciding whether to proceed with the proposed shutdown.
If the issue remains unresolved, residents could face difficulties buying naan and other tandoor products after August 14.
The warning has increased pressure on the Food Department and district administration to address the concerns raised by naan bakers.
Also read: Tandoor owners are selling naan and roti at significantly higher prices than the official rates
