Roti, Naan prices soar in Lahore despite official rates

Residents say that while the official price of a roti remains Rs16, many bakeries are selling it for Rs20. Consumers have also reported that the bread

LAHORE: Consumers in Lahore continue to face inflated prices for roti and naan despite government-fixed rates, with complaints also emerging over reduced weight and declining quality.

Residents say that while the official price of a roti remains Rs16, many bakeries are selling it for Rs20. Consumers have also reported that the bread being sold is lighter than the prescribed weight and fails to meet quality standards.

The price of plain naan has also risen in several parts of the city, increasing from Rs20 to Rs30, adding to the financial burden on consumers.

Punjab’s Food Security Department has rejected any justification for the price hike, maintaining that wheat flour is readily available and that there is no valid reason to increase the cost of roti or naan. Officials said enforcement teams will conduct inspections to ensure bakeries comply with the government’s prescribed prices, weight, and quality standards.

However, United Non-Roti Association President Aftab Gul argued that rising costs of flour, fine flour, LPG, and shopping bags have made it impossible for bakers to sell roti at the current official rate. He urged the district administration to revise the price of plain roti to Rs25.