Islamabad Sets Sugar Price at Rs172/kg Amid Shortage

ISLAMABAD – The federal government has officially fixed the retail price of sugar at Rs172 per kilogram in the capital as part of an urgent response to the worsening sugar crisis affecting Islamabad and Rawalpindi.

According to a formal notification issued by the district administration, the ex-mill rate (price at which mills sell to wholesalers) has been set at Rs165 per kilogram. The move aims to stabilise the soaring market prices and ensure affordable access to this essential commodity.

The Deputy Commissioner (DC) of Islamabad has directed all assistant commissioners to enforce strict compliance with the new pricing structure. The notification explicitly warns that strict legal action will be taken against shopkeepers or wholesalers found violating the fixed rates.

To further strengthen enforcement, the DC has launched a crackdown on profiteering. Retailers and wholesalers charging above the approved rates will face penalties, including fines, store closures, or possible arrests. Citizens have been urged to report any incidents of overpricing or hoarding to help control the crisis.

Despite the government’s announcement, sugar remains unavailable in many parts of Rawalpindi and Islamabad. Both retail shops and wholesale markets are reporting stock shortages, with shelves lying empty and suppliers unable to meet demand.

Market reports indicate that retail prices have surged to Rs190–Rs200 per kilogram, while a 50-kg bag in the wholesale market has soared up to Rs9,300, far above the officially declared rates.