ISLAMABAD: A sudden and significant increase in wheat prices has been seen across the country, as a result of which the prices of flour and related daily items, especially roti and naan, are likely to increase.
According to market sources, the price of wheat 10 KG has increased from Rs 2,400 to Rs 3,200 in just one month, while the price of a 20-kg bag of flour has increased by Rs 400, which has further increased the problems for the common consumer.
Preparations to increase the prices of roti and naan The president of the Nanbai Association has confirmed that in view of the increase in the prices of wheat and flour, an increase in the prices of roti and naan has also become inevitable.
He said, “We cannot increase the prices on our own without taking permission from the administration, that is why we will meet the Deputy Commissioner Islamabad tomorrow and request a notification for new prices.” The president of the Nanbai Association said that currently roti is being sold for Rs 18 and naan for Rs 22, however, they will request that the new price of roti be fixed at Rs 20 and naan for Rs 25.
Either provide flour at the old rate, or let the prices increase. The Nanbai Association has taken the stand that if the administration does not allow new prices, then the government will have to provide flour at the old rates because it is not possible to sell cheap bread with expensive flour. The President of the Nanbai Association explained that about 120 to 150 grams of flour is used for one naan, the cost of which has increased by Rs 2.5 to 3, while the price of 80 to 100 grams of flour required for ordinary bread has increased by Rs 1.5 to 2.
Risk of further inflation for the public. Experts say that if the prices of wheat and flour continue to increase, not only bread but also other food items may become expensive. The public is already worried about inflation and the increase in the price of a basic need like bread will further increase their problems.
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