In a surprising move, the Utility Stores Corporation (USC) has raised the prices of crucial commodities such as sugar, ghee, and flour, affecting consumers across the board, including those enrolled in the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP). This price increase comes in the wake of the outgoing government’s decision to eliminate subsidies on these essential items.
Among the notable price hikes, a 10-kg bag of flour has witnessed a substantial increase of Rs200; sugar prices have surged by Rs30; and ghee prices have risen by Rs53 per kilogramme. This unforeseen surge in prices has left many consumers bewildered, especially considering that the government recently augmented the subsidy allocation for the USC from Rs30 billion to Rs35 billion in the ongoing fiscal year’s budget.
In a bid to alleviate the burden on consumers, the Prime Minister’s Azadi package for BISP beneficiaries is set to launch on August 11. This relief package aims to cushion the impact of the price hikes by offering a 10-kg bag of flour at a reduced price of Rs648. Additionally, a discount of Rs25 per kilogramme will be applied to rice and pulses for eligible beneficiaries.
However, the plight of consumers has been compounded by widespread shortages of essential goods at utility stores. Frustration among citizens has mounted as they endure long lines for houRsin the hope of purchasing subsidised items, only to be met with empty shelves and disappointment. The lack of availability has further exacerbated the challenges posed by the recent price increases.
Curiously, authorities at the utility stores have refrained from commenting on the escalating situation. This silence has left consumers and observers alike wondering about the root causes of these unexpected developments and the potential implications for the broader economic landscape.
