Ahead of Ramadan, flour prices have surged across Pakistan, with Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan facing the sharpest increases. The rise has created serious difficulties for many households.
Recent reports show that flour is now being sold at around 150 rupees per kilogram, while a 20-kilogram bag costs between 3,000 and 3,500 rupees. This sudden jump in prices has placed additional strain on middle- and low-income families, especially as many have already started preparing for Ramadan.
Flour mill owners say that prices are likely to remain high until the arrival of the new wheat crop, which may take another two months.
They also point out that limits on the movement of wheat from Sindh and Punjab have disrupted supply to Balochistan, leading to shortages. According to them, this shortage is a key factor behind the price hike.
The situation has worsened after the Food Department stopped wheat procurement. Analysts believe that without quick and effective steps, the shortage could become more severe during Ramadan.
Members of the public have called on the government to step in immediately. They are urging authorities to ensure sufficient flour supply and introduce measures to keep prices under control so people are not burdened further during the holy month.