Vegetable prices have shot up sharply in Lahore and other major cities, putting extra pressure on families already struggling with high inflation.
In Lahore markets, the price of tomatoes has climbed to Rs 200 per kilogram. This is much higher than the official rates fixed by the authorities. In some other cities of Pakistan, tomato prices had earlier reached as high as Rs 500 per kg, showing how quickly the rates can change.
Other vegetables have also become expensive. Garlic is now selling at around Rs 600 per kg in the open market, compared to the official rate of Rs 550. Ginger is being sold at Rs 350 per kg against the official price of Rs 285. Onions are available between Rs 70 to 75 per kg, while green chillies have jumped to Rs 180 per kg.
The main reasons for this sudden rise include supply disruptions caused by heavy rains in southern areas like Badin, which damaged tomato crops. Rising fuel prices and higher transportation costs have also added to the problem, making it expensive to bring vegetables from farms to city markets.
Shoppers in Lahore are unhappy and say basic vegetables are becoming unaffordable for daily meals. Many families have reduced their use of tomatoes and other items. Vendors say they have no choice but to increase prices because of the higher costs they face.
Experts believe better supply chain management and timely imports could help control the prices. People are hoping the government will take quick steps to bring down the rates and provide relief to common citizens.
This price surge comes at a difficult time when household budgets are already tight. Consumers are advised to check local markets carefully and buy only what they need.