Severe Flour Crisis and Soaring Prices in Balochistan, PkMAP Demands Emergency Government Action

Quetta: The provincial secretariat of the Pashtunkhwa National Awami Party (PkMAP) has expressed grave concern over the worsening flour crisis and sharp price hikes across the province, particularly in Quetta and other districts.

In a press release, the party stated that an artificial shortage of flour has been created in recent weeks, causing severe hardship for the public. Poor government planning, hoarding, profiteering, and lack of effective oversight have further aggravated the situation.

According to the statement, daily wage laborers, government and private employees, and low-income families are facing immense financial pressure due to rising flour prices. In several areas, flour supply has become uncertain, forcing citizens to stand in long queues. Despite official price lists being displayed, flour is reportedly being sold at rates far higher than the notified prices, which the party termed as clear evidence of weak administrative control and government incompetence.

The party emphasized that it is the constitutional and legal responsibility of the government to ensure the timely and affordable supply of essential food items. However, the current situation presents a stark contrast to this obligation.

The provincial secretariat demanded immediate emergency measures to ensure uninterrupted and adequate supply of flour. It called for strict and indiscriminate action against hoarders, profiteers, and mafias. The party also urged the government to ensure transparent and fair distribution of subsidies to deserving citizens and to activate price control committees in all districts for effective monitoring and enforcement.

The statement warned that if the government fails to take serious and practical steps promptly, public unrest and anxiety may intensify, and the responsibility will lie with the concerned authorities.

The Pashtunkhwa National Awami Party reaffirmed its commitment to continuing constitutional, democratic, and peaceful struggle to protect the basic rights of the people and vowed to raise the issue of the flour crisis at every available forum until it is fully resolved.