Flour prices have seen a steep rise in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, increasing from Rs. 75 per kilogram to Rs. 145 per kilogram over the past two months. The surge comes after Punjab suspended wheat and flour supply to the province, creating a severe shortage in local markets.
According to market data, the price of a 20-kilogram flour bag has climbed by Rs. 1,250 within eight weeks. The sharp increase has also affected daily essentials, with 150-gram rotis now selling for Rs. 30 at tandoors across the province.
Officials and traders have linked the shortage to Punjab’s decision to restrict the inter-provincial movement of wheat and flour. The move has disrupted supply chains and added to the inflationary pressure already burdening households in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
In response, the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government has sent a formal letter to the Punjab Food Department, demanding that the transport ban be lifted immediately. The letter followed a high-level meeting chaired by Chief Minister Sohail Afridi, who described the restriction as “deeply affecting the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.”
The communication warned that the ongoing shortage has forced consumers to buy flour at nearly double the previous rate, while local flour mills face difficulties maintaining production due to limited wheat supply.
The letter also included a comparative report highlighting the difference in flour prices between Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa before and after the ban.
Citing Article 155(1) of Pakistan’s Constitution, the provincial government reminded authorities that all provinces must cooperate and facilitate the free movement of essential commodities. The letter emphasized that wheat and flour are vital food staples and should not be restricted between provinces.
With prices continuing to rise, residents and traders alike have urged immediate intervention to stabilize the flour market and prevent further hardship for consumers.
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