Quetta flour prices surge, roti weight cut

Quetta flour prices surge, roti weight cut

QUETTA: Flour prices in Quetta continue to rise, adding to the financial burden on residents already struggling with the increasing cost of essential food items. The latest increase of Rs15 per kilogram has pushed the price of flour from Rs145 to Rs160 per kilogram, while the cost of a 20-kilogram bag has also climbed significantly.

According to market sources, the price of a 20kg flour bag has increased by Rs300 in the latest hike. Since March, flour prices have risen by Rs40 per kilogram, while the cost of a 20kg bag has surged by Rs800, reflecting a sustained upward trend in the local market.

Prices vary across the city and its surrounding areas. In some parts of Quetta, a 20kg flour bag now costs between Rs3,200 and Rs3,250, compared with earlier rates of around Rs2,900. The price in the city’s outskirts has reached as high as Rs3,250 per bag.

The rising market prices have also raised questions about the implementation of official price controls. The government has fixed the official price of a 20kg flour bag in Quetta at Rs2,640, significantly below the rates consumers currently face in several markets.

Meanwhile, residents have complained that tandoor owners are using higher flour prices to justify reducing the weight of roti sold for Rs40. According to citizens, the weight of the Rs40 roti has fallen from the prescribed 310 grams to between 230 and 270 grams at various tandoors.

Consumers say they are paying the same price for a smaller quantity of bread, making it increasingly difficult for low-income households to manage their daily food expenses. The reduction in roti weight has added to public frustration as flour prices continue to rise.

Residents have urged the district administration to take immediate action against overcharging and ensure that flour and roti remain available at officially notified rates. They have also called for regular inspections of flour markets and tandoors to prevent unjustified price increases and ensure compliance with the prescribed weight of bread.

Citizens stressed that authorities must strengthen monitoring and enforcement to protect consumers from further financial pressure and ensure that basic food items remain affordable.