A discrepancy exists between official claims of falling prices and market realities in Lahore during Ramazan. Despite assertions of significant price reductions, a survey indicates that essential commodities are largely being sold above government-notified rates.
Price Discrepancies Reported in Lahore Markets
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif convened a meeting where officials stated that prices of essential goods had decreased by over 50 percent – a first for Punjab during Ramazan. The chief minister reportedly praised the administrative machinery’s performance and directed authorities to ensure shops display official price lists and to increase the supply of essential items, particularly within Lahore.
Officials at the meeting reported that onion prices had reached their lowest point since 2022, with declines also noted in ginger, garlic, and lemons compared to the previous year.
However, a market survey revealed a different picture. Grade-A dry onions were selling for up to Rs80 per kg, despite being officially priced at Rs53 per kg. Tomatoes were being sold for as much as Rs80 per kg, exceeding the official price of Rs55. Significant price differences were also observed for garlic, ginger, and Chinese lemons.
The survey also found that green chilies, potatoes, cucumber, and spinach were all selling above their officially mandated prices. Several other vegetables, including cauliflower, cabbage, turnip, eggplant, okra, and capsicum, were similarly priced higher than the government rates. Okra, for example, sold for Rs340 per kg, while its official price is Rs215, and capsicum sold for Rs200 per kg against a fixed price of Rs150.
Customers have reportedly called on the administration to enforce price controls and address profiteering.
The meeting also revealed that approximately Rs30 million in savings were realized for consumers through the sale of 2.1 million tonnes of food items at 49 Ramazan Negahban Bazaars during the first five days of Ramazan. Fruits, vegetables, flour, and chicken were reportedly sold at lower rates in Murree than in Rawalpindi. Senior citizen facilitation camps benefited around 10,000 elderly shoppers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What did officials claim about price reductions?
Officials claimed that prices of essential commodities had dropped by more than 50 per cent for the first time in Punjab’s history during Ramazan.
What was the price of onions according to the official price list?
According to the official price list, onions were fixed at Rs53 per kg.
How many people visited the Ramazan Negahban Bazaars during the first five days of Ramazan?
More than 3.5 million people visited the 49 Ramazan Negahban Bazaars during the first five days of Ramazan.
Will authorities be able to effectively enforce price controls and address the concerns of consumers regarding inflated prices in Lahore markets?
