NOWSHERA: As the intensity of heat continues to rise across Pakistan, residents of Nowshera are now facing a new challenge — a sudden and steep increase in the price of ice, which was once an affordable relief from the heat, has now turned into a luxury item for many households.
In recent days, the price of a single ice block, which just a week ago was being sold for Rs. 1,500, has surged to Rs. 3,500 to 4,000 — an increase of more than 100%. The hike, locals say, is arbitrary and unjustified, and has placed an additional burden on families already struggling with power cuts and high inflation.
Speaking to Pakhtoon Digital, several ice vendors in Nowshera justified the price hike by citing a sharp rise in demand due to the scorching weather. They also pointed fingers at ice factory owners, accusing them of increasing wholesale prices without any regulation. Moreover, a large portion of ice produced in local factories is reportedly being transported to various cities in Punjab, which has further limited local availability and driven up costs.
Citizens, however, are not convinced. They argue that the pricing is purely profiteering and that the absence of oversight by local authorities has allowed sellers to manipulate the market at the expense of the public.
Adding to the crisis is the persistent load-shedding and frequent tripping of electricity across the district, which has rendered refrigerators and freezers ineffective. Many families now have no choice but to buy ice from the market just to keep drinking water cool or to preserve food items during extended power outages.
“We don’t have uninterrupted electricity even for a few hours. Our refrigerators can’t keep things cold, and we are being forced to buy ice at outrageous prices,” said one resident. “This is exploitation, plain and simple.”
Citizens have called on the district administration and relevant authorities to take immediate notice of the situation. They are demanding strict regulation of ice prices, monitoring of supply chains, and penalties for those found hoarding or engaging in artificial price inflation.
With the heatwave expected to persist and no short-term resolution to the electricity crisis in sight, residents fear the situation could worsen if no action is taken soon.
“This is not just about comfort anymore — for many people, ice has become a necessity for daily survival,” said another local shopper. “The authorities must step in before it becomes completely unaffordable for the average household.”
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