PESHAWAR: Flour Prices Surge Amid Wheat Hoarding, Public Worries Rise
Flour prices have shot up sharply in Peshawar, with a 20-kilogram bag now costing up to Rs300 more, local dealers told ARY News on Wednesday.
According to traders, flour prices have risen by Rs15 to Rs20 per kilogram. A 20kg bag of mixed flour is now being sold at Rs 1,800, while fine flour has reached Rs 1,900.
Dealers blame large-scale wheat hoarding for the hike, saying stockists are purchasing directly from farmers and storing huge quantities, creating an artificial shortage. They also warned that if hoarding continues and the government delays intervention, prices may climb even higher.
Meanwhile, the situation in Punjab is no different. Wheat and flour prices there are rising at an alarming pace, with the price of wheat jumping by Rs300 in just one week to Rs3,100 per 40kg (maund). Over the past month, wheat has become nearly Rs1,000 costlier per 40kg, while flour prices have increased by about Rs500 per 20kg bag.
The sudden surge has triggered widespread concern among consumers and traders alike. Many blame the Punjab government’s abrupt decision to withdraw from regulating the wheat market, arguing that it has allowed hoarders and speculators to manipulate prices, adding further pressure on household budgets.
Mutib Khalid is a skilled content writer and digital marketer with a knack for crafting compelling narratives and optimizing digital strategies. Excel in creating engaging content that drives results and enhances online presence. Passionate about blending creativity with data-driven approaches, Mutib Khalid helps brands connect with their audience and achieve their goals.