Chicken prices have surged dramatically as an alleged artificial shortage of chicks, rising costs, and increased demand during the wedding season drive market rates higher.

The official price of chicken meat in Lahore is set at Rs591 per kilogram after a Rs4 reduction, but shopkeepers are charging significantly higher rates. In Rawalpindi, live chicken is being sold at Rs412 per kilogram, while clean meat has reached an alarming Rs680 per kilogram, leaving citizens struggling to cope with the rising costs.

Shopkeepers cite the wedding season as the reason for the increase in rates, while the common man has reduced purchase of the meat due to high costs.

Tariq Javed, the president of Tollington Market in Lahore, justified the price hike, citing increased operational expenses. Traders have also blamed poultry farms for the inflated prices, stating that limited supply has forced them to sell at higher rates.

“When goods are short, we purchase them at elevated prices and are left with no choice but to sell them at a markup,” explained trader Aqib Khan.

The cold weather has contributed to the growing demand for chicken, particularly for soups, tikka, and other seasonal dishes, further widening the gap between supply and demand. Citizens expressed frustration over the rising costs, with some urging the government to intervene.

“Eating chicken has become a luxury for the poor. It should cost around Rs400–500 per kilogram so that everyone can afford it,” said a local resident.

The administration's inability to enforce the official rate list has led to public protests. Citizens have called for immediate action to control prices and provide relief.