The Rawalpindi-Islamabad Nanbais Association has called on the government to immediately reverse the recent increase in wheat flour prices and stabilize the costs of gas, electricity, and Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG). The association warned that continued price hikes are pushing bakers toward what they described as “economic murder.”
Association President Shafiq Qureshi stated that naanbais can no longer afford to purchase costly flour while being compelled to sell bread at government-fixed low rates. He cautioned that if subsidized flour is not provided by October 28, tandoor owners across both cities will close their businesses, potentially leaving thousands of families without income.
Speaking at a press conference at the National Press Club, Qureshi was joined by Rawalpindi Nanbais Association General Secretary Khursheed Qureshi, Traders Association Pakistan President Kashif Chaudhry, and other representatives. He explained that the cost of wheat flour has doubled, yet naan prices remain capped at Rs. 14, as mandated by the Punjab government, despite soaring utility expenses.
The association emphasized that unless the authorities guarantee an adequate supply of affordable flour in accordance with the Deputy Commissioner’s directive, tandoor closures will become inevitable. Such a move, they warned, would trigger significant unemployment and disrupt daily life for thousands of residents in the twin cities.
