ISLAMABAD: The flour prices have increased across several cities of Pakistan, adding to the financial pressure on households and raising concerns about a possible rise in the prices of bread and naan.
In Islamabad, the price of flour has gone up by Rs10 per kilogram, prompting fears that bakery items may also become more expensive in the coming days.
In Balakot, the price of fine flour has reached Rs6,000 per maund, while double super flour is being sold at Rs5,800 per maund. As far as local markets are concerned; double super flour is reportedly available at prices as high as Rs5,880 per maund. Residents have urged the government to take immediate steps to control rising flour prices.
Meanwhile, flour prices in Peshawar have remained stable. Market sources say a 20-kilogram bag of mixed flour is currently selling for Rs2,900, while a 20-kilogram bag of fine flour continues to be available at Rs3,000.
In Multan, however, flour prices have increased further, with an addition of up to Rs20 per kilogram. In the open market, flour is now being sold at Rs130 per kilogram, creating difficulties for low-income families.
Similar trends have been reported in Talagang, where flour prices have moved beyond the reach of ordinary citizens. Wheat flour is being sold at Rs120 to Rs130 per kilogram, while stone-ground flour made from red wheat has reached Rs140 to Rs150 per kilogram.
Just a few days ago, flour was available at Rs90 per kilogram. In this sense, wheat prices in Talagang have increased by Rs1,500 per maund, with open market rates ranging between Rs4,000 and Rs4,300 per maund.
In Kasur, wheat and flour have also become unaffordable for many residents. Fine flour that was selling at Rs90 per kilogram is now available at Rs120, while stone-ground flour has risen from Rs115 to between Rs140 and Rs145 per kilogram.
Additionally, fine wheat flour (maida) has increased by Rs15 per kilogram, with an 80-kilogram bag now costing between Rs10,800 and Rs11,000.
In Chaman, a sharp increase has been recorded over the past week. As per the Market Association, the price of a 100-kilogram flour bag has risen by Rs2,500 due to the suspension of flour supplies from Punjab.
The price of a 50-kilogram bag has jumped by Rs1,000 to Rs1,200 within a week.
