Flour Crisis Deepens in Balochistan as Government Sells Wheat Stock at Loss

QUETTA:The flour crisis in Balochistan has intensified, leaving citizens burdened with soaring prices despite the provincial food department having had 800,000 wheat bags in stock earlier this year.

According to reports, the department failed to procure wheat during March and April 2025, and instead sold the old stock at throwaway prices, citing concerns that it might spoil. Following cabinet approval, the sale was made to clear warehouses, resulting in a staggering loss of **Rs6 billion** to the department.

With no reserves left, the province is now facing a severe shortage, pushing the price of a 20-kilogram flour bag to **Rs2,300** over the past three weeks. The sharp increase has placed immense financial strain on the public.

Citizens and traders alike have expressed concern over the government’s mismanagement, warning that the crisis could worsen if urgent measures are not taken to stabilize supply and prices.