Prices up for essential food items continue to strain household budgets across the country. A fresh surge in cooking oil and flour prices has added pressure on families already facing high inflation.
Edible oil prices have jumped sharply within a week. Retail rates increased by Rs60 per litre. Cooking oil is now being sold at Rs550 per litre in local markets. Just days earlier, the same oil was available at around Rs490 per litre.
Shopkeepers say the increase happened due to supply issues. Vendors claim wholesalers raised prices without notice. As a result, retailers passed the cost on to consumers. Many buyers expressed shock at the sudden jump.
Prices up trends are also visible in flour markets. A five-kilogram bag of flour is now selling for Rs900. This rate is higher than several competing brands. Customers have raised serious concerns about quality.
Many buyers complained about a foul smell and gritty texture. Some said the flour was unfit for use. Several consumers returned bags to shopkeepers after noticing quality problems at home. Vendors admitted the complaints were valid.
Shopkeepers confirmed that dozens of flour bags were returned. They also said the product did not meet basic quality standards. Despite this, prices remain high, leaving buyers with limited options.
Consumers are now demanding urgent government action. They want authorities to investigate both pricing and product quality. Shoppers have urged officials to inspect mills and suppliers. They also want strict monitoring of food standards.
Prices up across essential items are affecting low and middle-income families the most. Many households say monthly expenses are becoming unmanageable. Families are cutting back on food items to balance budgets.
Market observers warn the situation could worsen. Without price checks, traders may continue increasing rates. Experts stress the need for strong regulation to control inflation.
Community members have also called for transparency in supply chains. They want clear reasons for price hikes. Public trust remains low due to repeated increases.
Prices up for basic food items have sparked frustration and concern. Citizens are hoping for immediate relief through government intervention and fair pricing policies.
In other news read more about: Weekly Inflation Rises 0.56% Amid Fuel And Food Price Hike
