Vegetable and Fruit Prices Rise After Petrol, Diesel Hike

LAHORE: Prices of vegetables and fruits have sharply increased in Lahore following a rise in petroleum product rates. Consumers are facing economic hardships due to the sudden surge. Retail markets are selling items at rates higher than official price lists. There is a noticeable difference between prices in posh areas and street markets. Shoppers are expressing concern over the rising cost of essential food items.

Vegetables are being sold at significantly higher prices. Onion costs Rs90 per kg, tomato Rs120, garlic Rs680, and ginger Rs460. Lemongrass is priced at Rs120, green chillies Rs200, and other greens at Rs80 per kg. Raw peeled potatoes cost Rs40, cucumber Rs70, spinach Rs60, cabbage Rs80, cauliflower Rs70, and turnips Rs50. Seasonal vegetables are now difficult for ordinary consumers to afford.

Other vegetables have also become expensive. Eggplant sells for Rs160, okra Rs350, bell pepper Rs200, peas Rs60, radish Rs40, and mung bean Rs180. Gajardisi is Rs50, Bangan Rs160, and fenugreek Rs80 per kg. Prices are affecting daily household budgets across Lahore. Market vendors say costs rise with fuel prices, impacting transport and supply chains.

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As Ramazan approaches, fruit prices have increased significantly. High-quality bananas are Rs250 per dozen, Kinows Rs420, black Kolo Pahari apples Rs575, and black Kolo Maidani apples Rs370. Guava costs Rs200, plums Rs180, pepita Rs560, and Kandhari pomegranate Rs850 per kg. Seasonal fruit remains unaffordable for many families. The rising prices are adding financial pressure ahead of the holy month.

Consumers note a direct link between fuel hikes and food prices. Whenever petrol or diesel prices rise, vegetable and fruit rates immediately increase. Households are struggling to manage essential food expenses. Market experts warn prices may continue rising if fuel costs remain high. The situation highlights the broader economic challenges facing ordinary citizens.