LAHORE: Residents of Lahore are facing growing difficulties as the prices of essential vegetables continue to rise well above government-set rates.
According to market sources, onions, which are officially priced at Rs. 135 per kilogram, are now being sold at Rs. 160 per kilogram. Similarly, tomatoes are available at Rs. 100 per kilogram instead of the official Rs. 80. Cucumbers have jumped from Rs. 90 to Rs. 120 per kilogram, and bitter gourd prices have risen from Rs. 70 to Rs. 100 per kilogram. Other vegetables, including eggplant, fenugreek, and carrots, are also being sold at higher rates, adding to the burden on ordinary households.
Many citizens expressed frustration, calling on the government to take stricter measures to enforce the official price list. They argue that simply displaying the government rates at shops is not enough to curb price manipulation.
“We cannot afford these rates,” said one local shopper. “The government must ensure compliance to protect ordinary consumers.”
On the other hand, shopkeepers explained that rising transportation and supply chain costs have made it difficult to sell at official rates. They emphasized that price hikes are sometimes unavoidable due to increased fuel costs and logistical challenges.
This surge in vegetable prices adds to the growing concern over inflation in Lahore, impacting daily life for residents who already struggle with rising costs of essential goods. Economists warn that without stronger regulatory oversight, such price increases may continue to strain household budgets.
