Peshawar ( The cow news digital ) Prices of essential food items are rising as Eid al-Fitr approaches, adding to the financial pressure on consumers already struggling with inflation in Pakistan.
In Peshawar, the price of chicken has increased significantly over the past week. According to traders in the local poultry market, the price of live chicken has risen by Rs45 per kilogram, reaching around Rs405 per kilogram.
Market vendors say the price hike is largely due to increased demand ahead of Eid, when families typically purchase larger quantities of food items for celebrations and gatherings.
Consumers have expressed concern over the rising cost of poultry, which is considered one of the most widely consumed and relatively affordable sources of protein in the country. The increase has forced many households to reconsider their food budgets during the festive season.
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Meanwhile, other essential commodities have also witnessed price hikes. Cooking oil and ghee prices have increased in local markets, adding further pressure on household expenses.
Vegetable prices have also gone up, with many items becoming Rs20 to Rs30 per kilogram more expensive in recent days. Fruit prices have seen even sharper increases, with some items rising by as much as Rs50 per kilogram.
The rising cost of food is being felt particularly strongly by low- and middle-income families who are already coping with higher utility bills and transportation costs.
Earlier, reports also indicated that flour prices have increased in Peshawar, with a 20-kilogram bag now selling for around Rs2,700 in several markets.
Economists say seasonal demand during Ramadan and Eid often leads to temporary spikes in food prices. However, they warn that continued inflation in essential commodities could place additional strain on consumers.
Market authorities have urged traders to avoid artificial price hikes and ensure fair pricing practices. Officials say monitoring teams may conduct inspections to prevent profiteering during the festive period.
Consumers, meanwhile, are hoping for stabilization in prices so that basic food items remain accessible during the upcoming Eid celebrations.
