Pakistan is facing an unprecedented rise in the prices of daily necessities, including sugar, lemons, ghee, and honey, causing widespread unrest among its citizens. The surge in prices comes at a time when the country is grappling with the aftermath of heightened tensions with India following the deadly terrorist attack in Pahalgam.
Sugar Prices Soar to Record Highs
Sugar, a staple item in every household, has seen a dramatic price increase in Pakistan. While the price of sugar in India is relatively stable at 50 rupees per kilogram, Pakistanis are now paying as much as 180 rupees per kilogram. Reports indicate that the price in Karachi has touched a staggering 175 rupees per kilogram, while in Quetta, it stands at 164 rupees. Many areas are seeing the cost of one kilogram of sugar reach up to 180 rupees, highlighting the severity of the situation.
Lemon and Honey Prices Skyrocket
Lemons have also become an expensive commodity in Pakistan. According to media reports, 250 grams of lemons are now being sold for 234 Pakistani rupees. Meanwhile, the price of honey has surged as well, with 500 grams priced between 550 and 770 rupees. The price hikes are causing distress, especially among low-income families who rely on these essential goods.
Ghee and Other Essential Commodities Become Unaffordable
Ghee, another essential ingredient in Pakistani kitchens, is currently being sold at 2895 rupees per kilogram, according to media reports. The rising costs of food items have left many struggling to maintain their daily lives. The economic strain is compounded by the shortage of medicines and fertilisers, which are also experiencing price hikes. This rise in costs is attributed to the closure of the Attari border by India, halting trade worth billions of rupees between the two nations.
Impact of Diplomatic Tensions on Trade
The diplomatic fallout following the terrorist attack in Pahalgam has had a significant impact on trade between India and Pakistan. As part of retaliatory measures, India has suspended the Indus Waters Treaty, expelled Pakistani nationals, and closed its border with Pakistan. This has led to disruptions in the supply of essential goods, including food items, medicines, and agricultural inputs, which are now seeing their prices soar in Pakistan.
The Plight of Pakistani Suits
In addition to the rise in essential commodity prices, the ongoing tensions have also affected the market for Pakistani suits, which were once popular in India. Following the Pahalgam attack, the demand for these garments has plummeted, further exacerbating the economic difficulties faced by Pakistan.
