Web Desk: Flour prices have increased and out of reached across Baluchistan and in different parts triggering concerns over shortages and making it increasingly difficult for residents to purchase the essential commodity.
Market Price rise
The market sources said that a 20-kilogram bag of flour has crossed Rs2,500 in several areas of the province and the price of a 100-kilogram bag has risen by Rs200 to Rs300. The sudden increase has disrupted supply and leading to limited availability in many local markets.
Burden on the households
According to the citizens they are facing severe difficulties in obtaining flour as shopkeepers struggle to meet demand amid rising prices. It is added to the already coping with inflations households a major financial burden.
Supply chain disruption
Traders attribute the price hike to supply chain issues and increased transportation costs, while residents have urged the authorities to intervene and stabilize prices to prevent further hardship.
Tandoors to Remain Closed
Earlier, the Pakistan Naanbai Association announced a complete shutdown to protest against the sharp rise in flour prices.
The association said that if the administration provides quality flour, naanbais will not raise the price of roti. They added that the price of flour doubled in two months, but the government is not providing any subsidy.
Leaders of the association said there is also a shortage of natural gas, forcing tandoor owners to use LPG cylinders instead. in the dispute between the district administration, the Food Department, and the association, a temporary resolution was reached after talks.
The Central President of the Naanbai Association, Shafiq Qureshi, said that when the Shehbaz Sharif government came to power, a 79-kg sack of red flour cost Rs5,500, but now the price has increased to Rs11,000.
Similarly, a bag of fine flour that was Rs6,200 costs Rs12,600.
He said the strike is being held to protest the rising cost of flour, sealing of tandoors, and heavy fines ranging from Rs50,000 to Rs100,000.
Also read: Tandoors to Remain Closed from Tomorrow
