Milk and yogurt prices surge in Quetta despite drop in petroleum rates, citizens express concern

Quetta has witnessed a sharp increase in milk and yogurt prices despite a significant reduction in petroleum product rates, leaving citizens concerned over rising inflation and inconsistent market trends.

According to reports, while fuel prices across Pakistan have recently been reduced—bringing down petrol by Rs. 77 per litre and high-speed diesel by Rs. 64 per litre—the expected relief in essential commodities has not been reflected in Quetta’s local markets.

In the provincial capital, the Dairy Farm Association and milk sellers have increased the price of loose milk by Rs. 20 per kilogram, fixing the new rate at Rs. 220 per kg. Similarly, yogurt prices have been raised by Rs. 30 per kilogram, now being sold at Rs. 250 per kg.

The dairy sector argues that rising costs of animal feed, medicines, electricity, labor, and other operational expenses have made it impossible to maintain previous rates. They maintain that the price hike is a “compulsory adjustment” in response to ongoing inflation.

However, citizens have strongly criticized the increase, calling it unjustified and contrary to expectations following the reduction in fuel prices. Many residents believe that essential food items should have become cheaper instead of more expensive.

Local residents have urged the Deputy Commissioner Quetta and Assistant Commissioner City Quetta to take immediate notice of the price hike. They demanded action against dairy traders and associations involved in what they termed unfair pricing, and called for enforcement of official price lists to provide relief to the public.

Public and social circles have also raised concerns over the growing trend of arbitrary price increases in Quetta, warning that middle- and lower-income groups are increasingly burdened by rising living costs. They have appealed to the district administration to strengthen market monitoring and take strict action against profiteering and hoarding.