Rawalpindi is currently witnessing a significant surge in chicken prices, as local shopkeepers openly disregard the official government rates. The recommended price of Rs 324 per kg is being flouted, with live chickens now fetching Rs 350, and chicken meat skyrocketing to Rs 500 or more, particularly on Sundays.
Adding to the economic strain is a broader inflation crisis in Pakistan, as reported by the Statistical Institute, citing an annual inflation rate of 42 percent. However, numerous citizens contend that the actual figure may surpass this, reaching possibly 50-60 percent.
The escalating inflation is severely impacting the affordability of essentials, particularly food items. The recent decision by the Market Committee Lahore to raise prices for 10 vegetables is compounding the financial challenges faced by already struggling households.
Chicken, a fundamental protein source for many Pakistanis, is now becoming prohibitively expensive. Consumers are confronted with a dilemma, forced to choose between compromising essential dietary needs or cutting back on other vital expenses.
In the final week of November, Islamabad and Rawalpindi were embroiled in a controversy over uniform poultry prices. Tensions reached a boiling point when three prominent poultry organizations initiated a strike, resulting in a chicken shortage that left residents grappling with the consequences.
