Disruptions caused by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) protests on Sunday have led to increased prices and shortages of essential goods across Pakistan, hitting the Hazara division hard. The region's poor and middle-class communities are feeling the effects most acutely.
Road blockages and transportation delays have critically impacted the delivery of perishable goods. In the Hazara division, the cost of fruits and vegetables has surged. Grapes, apples, bananas, and other seasonal fruits have experienced price increases of up to Rs100 ($0.45) per kilogram or dozen. This has made it difficult for consumers, who previously purchased these items at standard rates, to afford them now. Supply chain disruptions are cited by vendors as the primary reason for these hikes.
Staple vegetables like tomatoes, onions, and potatoes are either unavailable or being sold at high prices. Market vendors have expressed concerns that continued protests could worsen the availability of these essential items, deepening the crisis. The economic strain is particularly harsh on families with limited budgets, who now find it challenging to buy necessary fresh produce, exacerbating their financial difficulties.
Source: The Nation