QUETTA: Despite official claims of action against profiteering, the price of sugar has failed to subside in the provincial capital, continuing to burden citizens with a steep rate of Rs 230 per kilogram, according to market surveys conducted on Tuesday.
The situation presents a stark contrast for consumers, as medium-grade sugar is available for Rs 115 per kg. However, the persistently high cost of the standard, high-quality variant has become a source of significant distress and financial strain for the average household. Reports indicate that while some price reductions have been observed in suburban areas, the relief has not reached the main city markets.
The ongoing crisis has left the citizens of Quetta anxious and frustrated. Many residents openly express their concerns, alleging that the city’s Price Control Committee is “apparently ineffective” and has failed to curb the exploitative practices of sellers. The public sentiment is that the committee lacks the necessary enforcement power to protect consumers from what they perceive as unjustified price hikes.
Market sources attribute the sustained high prices to a fundamental “problem of demand and supply.” This suggests a potential shortage or logistical issues that sellers are leveraging to maintain elevated prices.
When contacted for their stance, the district administration offered a different perspective. Officials stated that concrete “steps have been taken against profiteers in collaboration with the Industries Department and the Market Committee.” They emphasized that joint operations are underway to monitor the market and take legal action against those found guilty of illegal profiteering.
For now, a palpable gap exists between the administration’s assurances and the ground reality faced by Quetta’s residents, who continue to bear the brunt of one of the kitchen essential’s highest prices in the region. The situation underscores the challenges in regulating essential commodity markets and ensuring price stability for the public.
