Fuel prices down, essential goods still costly

The benefits of recent reductions in petroleum prices have yet to reach ordinary consumers, as the prices of essential commodities continue to

The benefits of recent reductions in petroleum prices have yet to reach ordinary consumers, as the prices of essential commodities continue to remain high across several cities.

After repeated cuts in fuel prices, low-income and middle-income families had expected a decline in the cost of daily necessities. Many believed that transport costs would fall and that traders would pass on the relief to consumers through lower prices.

However, citizens say that little has changed in local markets. They claim that despite cheaper fuel, the prices of food items and household necessities continue to rise, putting additional pressure on family budgets.

Residents say they are still at the mercy of profiteers and retailers who have not reduced prices in line with falling petroleum costs. They argue that the expected relief has failed to materialise for ordinary households already struggling with inflation.

In Hyderabad, consumers reported that milk is still being sold for Rs240 per litre, while yogurt costs around Rs340 per kilogram. Sugar prices range between Rs140 and Rs150 per kilogram. Ghee is being sold for Rs590 to Rs600 per kilogram, while cooking oil prices range from Rs600 to Rs700 per kilogram.

Citizens have urged the administration and price control authorities to take action against profiteering and ensure that reductions in fuel prices translate into lower costs for consumers.

Meanwhile, similar complaints have emerged from Karachi, where prices of vegetables and other essential commodities remain high. Tomatoes are currently being sold for as much as Rs300 per kilogram in several markets.

Consumers say that despite repeated announcements of reductions in petroleum prices, there has been no noticeable decline in the prices of food items and daily necessities. They have called on the government and relevant institutions to strengthen market monitoring and provide relief to the public through strict enforcement of official prices.