SHANGLA:
Like the rest of the Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, flour prices have risen sharply in Shangla, with a 20-kilogram bag now selling for between Rs2,950 and Rs3,000, while prices in several remote areas have crossed the Rs3,000 mark, traders said.
The increase has added to the difficulties of people already struggling with rising inflation, as repeated increases in fuel prices have pushed up the cost of food and other essential commodities. Low-income households and employees working in the private sector are facing particular financial pressure, with many finding it increasingly difficult to meet household expenses, support their children and afford basic food.
Traders from different parts of Shangla said they were purchasing a 20kg flour bag for around Rs2,900 and selling it for Rs2,950 to Rs3,000. In remote areas, transportation and other additional costs had pushed the price above Rs3,000, they added.
The traders expressed concern over the increase, claiming that alleged restrictions or obstacles imposed by the Punjab government on inter-provincial transportation and trade were affecting markets in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. They said the situation could further affect the availability and prices of flour in the province.
They said that while fuel prices continued to rise, flour, cooking oil, sugar, pulses and other essential commodities were also becoming increasingly unaffordable for ordinary consumers. Rising daily expenses have disrupted household budgets, particularly for middle- and low-income families, while limited business activity and unemployment have prevented any significant increase in incomes.
According to the traders, employees working in private institutions, shops, markets and other sectors on low salaries are among the worst affected. Many low-paid workers earn around Rs30,000 a month or even less, making it extremely difficult to meet the basic expenses of a household under the prevailing inflationary conditions.
