Pakistanis are grappling with a deepening inflation crisis as new data reveals a 0.34% rise in the weekly inflation rate, pushing the overall figure to a staggering 44.64%. This relentless squeeze on household budgets is fueled by soaring prices of essential items, with 22 out of 30 monitored items witnessing increases.
The report indicates a mixed trend in commodity prices, with 22 items experiencing a price hike and 8 witnessing a decline. Notably, the cost of onions has soared to Rs 230 per kg, reflecting an increase of Rs 18.31 within the week. Similarly, tomatoes have become costlier by Rs 10.78 per kg, pushing the new price range to Rs 143 to Rs 154.
Protein sources have seen significant price hikes, with chicken prices rising by Rs 9.86 per kg and eggs per dozen escalating by Rs 7.87. Additionally, dal mash witnessed an increase of Rs 8.52 per kg.
On the vegetable front, garlic prices surged by Rs 12.41 per kg, contributing to the overall inflationary trend. The report also highlights upticks in the prices of mung dal, beef, and firewood.
Contrastingly, the prices of certain commodities experienced a decline, including potatoes, sugar, and petrol. Petrol prices per liter have decreased, providing some relief amid the broader inflationary pressures.
Despite these fluctuations, prices of 21 items, such as fresh milk and dry milk, remained stable throughout the week. The inflationary landscape poses ongoing challenges for consumers, prompting close scrutiny of economic policies to mitigate the impact on households.
