Rawalpindi:Chicken sellers in Rawalpindi have blatantly rejected the official prices set by the district administration, selling chicken meat at exorbitant rates and exploiting the public. Chicken is being sold at prices ranging from Rs740 to Rs790 per kilogram, far above the official rate of Rs595 per kilogram, which was set by Deputy Commissioner (DC) Hasan Waqar Cheema.
This price gouging, especially rampant in areas like Adiala Road, has been ongoing for over four months, while the district administration turns a blind eye.
Despite DC Rawalpindi issuing Notification Number IPWM/RWP/G-42, which outlined the prices of various essential items, including chicken, the directives have been largely ignored by shopkeepers. The notification also warned that strict action would be taken against those who did not comply with the official price list, but enforcement has been lacking.
The issue extends beyond chicken sellers. Vegetable vendors, grocers, bakers, and sweets sellers are also inflating prices, earning over 200 per cent profit on certain items, and refusing to sell goods at the official rates. The public is suffering from what they are calling 'man-made' inflation, caused by the mismanagement and inaction of the district administration.
The DC’s official price list includes rates for White Chana at Rs300 per kilogram, Daal Chana at Rs345, Daal Moong at Rs300, Daal Masoor at Rs275, Daal Mash at Rs500, rice at Rs270, milk at Rs270 to Rs290, yogurt at Rs200, mutton at Rs1600, and beef at Rs800. While these prices are deemed reasonable, profiteers and hoarders are disregarding the list and selling these items at their own inflated rates, reaping maximum profits without any fear of repercussions.
Locals in Rawalpindi have expressed their frustration, describing the situation as a result of administrative negligence. Many believe the inflation is artificially driven, with profiteers taking advantage of the lack of enforcement from local authorities. Despite issuing price lists, the district administration appears to be engaged only in paperwork, with little to no action taken to ensure that these prices are implemented in reality.
Residents of the city have voiced their concerns, stating that the unchecked profiteering and hoarding are severely impacting their daily lives. They have called for stronger action from the local administration to curb the rampant inflation and bring relief to the public.