PESHAWAR: Contrary to the claims of the federal government to reduce the prices of sugar commodity in the country, the prices of sugar are still high in the local markets as it is being sold in different cities for Rs 185 to 196 per kg, causing severe hardship to the people.
The price of sugar at the retail level in Peshawar has reached Rs 185 per kg, while the wholesale price is being charged at Rs 178 per kg. Although the government has fixed the wholesale rate at Rs 170 and the retail price at Rs 173 per kg, these rates are being completely ignored in the market.
According to dealers, sugar is available in the general market for Rs 196 per kg, while a 50 kg wholesale bag is being sold for Rs 8,730 and Rs 9,800 in the local market.
Prices are also out of control in other areas of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, as the price of sugar in Kohat has reached Rs 190 per kg. In Nowshera, sugar is being sold for Rs 180, while in Swabi, sugar is also being sold for Rs 190 per kg.
The government repeatedly claimed that sugar prices would be controlled, but no effective action could be taken against hoarders and profiteers in the market.
Common citizens say that inflation has broken their backs, and even basic commodities are now out of reach. The public has urgently demanded that the government activate price control committees and take strict action against price gougers so that the poor and middle class can breathe a sigh of relief.
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