LAHORE: The continuing trend of massive overcharging on essential food items in Lahore has left residents frustrated and struggling. Seasonal vegetables, fruits, and chicken have seen significant price hikes, with vendors openly violating official price lists without fear of repercussions from local authorities.
Live chicken prices have risen by Rs25 per kg, fixed at Rs379-393 per kg, but the meat is being sold at much higher rates — Rs530-640 per kg, while boneless chicken has skyrocketed to Rs900-1000 per kg. Similarly, vegetables like potatoes, tomatoes, and onions are being sold at prices far exceeding the official rates. For example, potatoes are sold at Rs80-100 per kg, despite being fixed at Rs40-45 per kg.
The situation is worsened by the fact that the district administration appears to have given vendors a free hand to charge what they wish, with no significant enforcement of official prices. Local residents have been left with little choice but to pay inflated prices for basic necessities, with some even forced to buy water at excessively high rates.
