ISLAMABAD: Before the beginning of Ramadan, the federal capital witnessed a threefold increase in the prices of food items, particularly fruits.
According to a report in the local English Daily, the cost of 5kg potatoes surged from Rs250 to Rs350, while green chilies saw a notable rise, reaching Rs300 per kg from Rs100 per kg. Similarly, the price of 5kg onions, which stood at Rs1,000 a week ago, has now escalated to Rs1,600.
In the I-11 fruit and vegetable market, the price of guava experienced a significant spike, soaring from Rs100 to Rs350. Other fruits like melons and bananas also witnessed price hikes.
District administration officials stated on Sunday that, in response to directives from the deputy commissioner, teams were deployed across different areas of the city to curb escalating prices.
The assistant commissioner (AC) of the industrial area conducted an inspection at the H-9 Sunday Bazaar, scrutinized the price lists, and imposed a fine of Rs 20,000 for overpricing.
Furthermore, AC City visited the Sunday Bazaar in the G-6 sector, arresting nine profiteers for violating the rate list. He also instructed shopkeepers to prominently display the rate list.
In other areas, Assistant Commissioner Nilor ordered the arrest of five traders, while Assistant Commissioner Rural visited the Sunday Bazaar in Pakistan Town, imposing a fine of Rs20,000 on profiteers.
According to the Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) administration, the operation against price hikes will persist daily.
