Inflation Continues to Rise in Quetta; Essential Commodities See Significant Price Hikes

Quetta:the provincial capital of Balochistan, inflation rates have surged beyond 24% annually following the implementation of the federal budget for the fiscal year 2024-25. Over the past week alone, the inflation rate has increased by 0.76%, with 29 essential items becoming more expensive while prices of only 5 items have shown a decrease.

During this period, chicken prices rose by 10% per kilogram, powdered milk by 5%, and eggs by 3%. Potatoes and garlic have also become 2% more expensive. Notably, the price of chicken has skyrocketed to Rs. 575 per kilogram from Rs. 450 previously.

Other significant increases include a 390-gram packet of powdered milk now costing Rs. 44.89, and eggs priced at Rs. 6.78 per dozen. Garlic has surged to Rs. 10.42 per kilogram. Conversely, tomatoes are now cheaper at Rs. 7.29 per kilogram, and bananas at Rs. 3.62 per piece.

The prices of lentils, fresh milk, sugar, rice, and yogurt have also witnessed hikes, while onions, lentils, and LP gas have seen reductions in prices. Meanwhile, stable prices were observed for bread, cooking oil, tea leaves, and cigarettes among 17 other commodities during the current week.

The escalating cost of living continues to pose challenges for residents of Quetta, as they grapple with persistent inflationary pressures impacting daily essentials.