Inflation continued its upward trajectory for the second consecutive week, driven by rising prices of everyday food items.

Official data shows that 21 essential commodities became costlier last week, pushing the weekly inflation rate up by 0.17 percent to 4.34 percent on an annual basis.

According to the report, live broiler chicken, onions, wheat flour, eggs, jaggery, and ghee saw noticeable price hikes over the past week. The prices of firewood and garlic also increased, adding further strain on household budgets.

A 20-kilogram bag of wheat flour became Rs117 more expensive, with the average price reaching Rs2,150. In some cities, the same bag was sold between Rs1,810 and Rs3,000.

The price of live chicken surged by Rs29 per kilogram, with the average rate standing at Rs350. In various markets, live chicken sold for anywhere between Rs320 and Rs410 per kilogram.

Eggs, sugar also become more expensive

Egg prices also climbed, increasing by Rs7 per dozen last week. The average rate was recorded at Rs321.51 per dozen, while in different cities, eggs were sold for Rs300 to Rs360 per dozen.

Similarly, sugar prices inched up by Rs0.48 per kilogram, with the average price reported at Rs184.37. In some areas, sugar prices ranged between Rs177 and Rs200 per kilogram — approaching record highs.

Relief on some commodities

Despite widespread increases, prices of six essential commodities declined during the week. Tomatoes, potatoes, gram, bananas, and domestic LPG cylinders were among the items that became cheaper.

The Federal Bureau of Statistics reported that tomato prices dropped by nearly Rs30 per kilogram, with the vegetable selling for Rs150 to Rs370 in various cities. LPG prices also declined slightly, with the average rate for domestic cylinders recorded at Rs3,045, while in some cities, it was available at Rs3,400.

Meanwhile, the prices of 24 essential items remained stable during the week.