LAHORE: The official price list for essential food items has become ineffective as vendors continue to sell goods at significantly higher rates across Lahore.
Despite the district administration’s efforts, implementation of government-issued price controls remains weak, with items such as bread, milk, meat, fruits, and vegetables being sold well above prescribed rates.
Reports indicate that a simple roti is being sold for up to Rs20 instead of the official Rs14. Similarly, beef is being sold at Rs1,200 per kilogram instead of Rs800, while mutton prices have surged to Rs3,000 per kilogram compared to the official Rs1,600 rate.
Milk prices have also increased sharply, reaching up to Rs240 per liter against the official Rs170, while yogurt is being sold at Rs250 per kilogram instead of Rs180.
Citizens have expressed frustration, alleging that price control measures by authorities, including price control magistrates and assistant commissioners, are largely ineffective and limited to symbolic actions.
On the other hand, shopkeepers argue that the current official price list is unrealistic and cannot be implemented under prevailing market conditions. They have urged the administration to revise prices in line with ground realities.
