Just a day before Ramadan, food prices across Pakistan have surged dramatically, making essential items unaffordable for many citizens.

Fruits, vegetables, and meat prices have skyrocketed despite the government’s official price lists, leaving buyers frustrated over unchecked inflation. The sudden increase in fruit prices has left citizens worried, taking fruits out of reach of the public. The difference in prices from three days ago is huge.

Fruit and vegetable prices spike in Lahore

In Lahore, markets and bazaars are selling essential food items well above the official rates:

Apples: Official price Rs305 per kg, market price Rs335 per kg
Bananas: Official price Rs270 per dozen, market price Rs300 per dozen
Guavas: Official price Rs220 per kg, market price Rs250 per kg
Tomatoes: Selling at Rs20 per kg more than the official rate
Ginger: Official price Rs340 per kg, market price Rs370 per kg
Garlic: Official price Rs530 per kg, market price Rs600 per kg

Despite the government's official price lists, violations continue as vendors charge inflated rates, further burdening consumers.

Rawalpindi faces similar price hikes

Residents of Rawalpindi are also witnessing a steep rise in fruit prices:

Apples: Rs320 per kg
Guavas: Rs210 per kg
Strawberries: Rs330 per kg
Bananas: Rs260 per dozen
Cantaloupe: Rs290 per kg
Dates: Increased from Rs450 to Rs650 per kg

Meat and grocery prices surge in Sukkur

In Sukkur, the situation is no different, with chicken and eggs seeing sharp price hikes:

Chicken meat: Increased from Rs670 per kg to Rs760 per kg in just a few days
Eggs: Rose from Rs200 to Rs290 per dozen

Consumers are struggling to keep up with the rising cost of basic food essentials as Ramadan approaches. Many buyers have expressed frustration, calling on the government to take strict action against price gouging.

Public outcry

Shoppers are raising concerns over inflation, with many questioning why prices spike every year before Ramadan. "Everything is becoming expensive; may God have mercy," said one buyer. Another remarked, "Inflation before Ramadan has become a norm in Pakistan."