Ramadan Inflation: Profiteers Exploit Demand as Prices Skyrocket

As Ramadan approaches, inflation has spiraled out of control, with profiteers arbitrarily raising prices of essential commodities such as poultry, sugar, rice, and gram flour, making it increasingly difficult for citizens to afford basic necessities.

Soaring Prices Despite Government Promises

Despite repeated assurances of price regulation, the Punjab government has once again failed to control market inflation. The unchecked surge in prices has sparked public outrage, as middle- and lower-income households struggle to manage their expenses during the holy month.

In Multan, the prices of essential goods have skyrocketed within days:

• Chicken has surged by Rs. 40 per kg, now costing Rs. 619 per kg.
• Sugar is selling at Rs. 150 per kg.
• Rice has jumped to Rs. 280 per kg.
• Gram flour has hit an alarming Rs. 380 per kg.

A frustrated resident expressed his concerns, stating, “In this entire cycle, it’s the common people who suffer. Profiteers make their Ramadan profits in advance, while we struggle to afford basic necessities.”

Another citizen urged the government to take responsibility, saying, “Rice, sugar, and gram flour are essentials, especially during Ramadan. Authorities must step in to regulate prices and ensure affordability for all.”

Inflation Extends Beyond Multan

The crisis isn’t limited to Multan—Jhang is also experiencing skyrocketing prices of fruits and other essentials. The cost of staple Ramadan items has seen massive spikes:

• Apples have increased from Rs. 200 to Rs. 350 per kg.
• Bananas have jumped from Rs. 100 to Rs. 250 per dozen.
• Dates, an essential item for breaking fasts, have soared from Rs. 750 to Rs. 1,000 per kg.

A shopper lamented, “Prices should go down during Ramadan, but instead, they double or even triple. Especially dates—every year, their rates skyrocket, making them unaffordable for many.”

Another resident sarcastically remarked, “They say the devil is locked away during Ramadan, but these profiteers take his place. They deliberately hike prices and exploit people’s needs.”

Government’s Inaction & Blame Game

Despite multiple claims by the Punjab government that market regulation efforts are in place, profiteers continue to operate unchecked. Shopkeepers blame wholesalers for the price hike, while authorities fail to take strict measures against market exploitation.

With Ramadan just around the corner, citizens are calling for immediate government intervention to control inflation. Empty promises will not be enough—people demand concrete action to prevent further financial burden on struggling families.