Mazaj News: Prices of vegetables, fruits and flour have started rising ahead of Ramazan after hitting seasonal lows due to a winter supply glut. Tomatoes saw the sharpest jump, while onions, potatoes and fruits such as bananas, apples and guavas have also become costlier in city markets.
A market survey shows wheat flour prices climbing to Rs2,500–2,700 per 20kg bag, up from Rs2,400–2,600 two weeks ago, while fine flour rose to Rs141 per kg. Fruit vendors have raised rates on popular Ramazan items, blaming higher demand and the end of the season, while roti prices remain unchanged despite complaints of reduced weight.
Traders and consumer groups warned that unchecked retail prices during Ramazan would add to public hardship, urging authorities to improve monitoring, especially as prices continue to rise despite claims by flour millers of ample wheat supply.