Rawalpindi : The daily revision of petrol prices has triggered a fresh concern over inflation, with consumers and business representatives warning that the policy is driving up the cost of living and placing an unbearable burden on households.
According to the residents, frequent increases in fuel prices — sometimes by Rs4, Rs6, Rs8, or even Rs10 per litre — have had a ripple effect across the economy, pushing up the prices of essential goods and services. Traders often cite higher transportation costs to justify price hike, leaving consumers with little choice but to pay more.
The residents of the twin cities urged the Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to abandon the daily fuel pricing mechanism. They argue that revising prices every day fuels uncertainty, accelerates inflation, and makes it increasingly difficult for ordinary citizens to manage household expenses. They have recommended returning to fortnightly or monthly fuel price adjustments to bring greater market stability.
The city dweller say the rising cost of food has become one of their biggest challenges. Vegetables are now priced between Rs200 and Rs250, while some varieties have reached Rs400 per kilogram. Tomato prices range from Rs300 to Rs450 per kilogram depending on the market, onions are selling for Rs100 to Rs120 and cucumbers have surged to Rs250 per kg. Capsicum is selling for around Rs200 per kilogram, eggplant Rs180, taro root Rs200, while chicken prices have climbed from about Rs505 to Rs560 per kilogram.
Many families say they are struggling to afford even basic food items while also coping with higher electricity, gas, and water bills.
The residents of Rawalpindi and Islamabad have appealed to the prime minister and the petroleum minister to restore fortnightly or monthly fuel price reviews, arguing that a more predictable pricing mechanism would help stabilise markets.
