Fruits' prices register sharp increase in Ramazan

ISLAMABAD: With the beginning of Holy Month of Ramazan, fruit vendors have enhanced prices of almost all fruits especially all varieties of dates which are commonly used during 'Iftar' by the faithfuls.

According to a survey of various markets conduced here on Tuesday, there was a sharp increase in prices of mangoes, peaches, apples, bananas and dates.

Dates which is a very popular among the people for 'Iftar' is being sold at Rs.190 to Rs.280.

The prices of imported dates and some superior variety even touch Rs.350 per kg which is very high for the common man. Although this commodity is available in weekly bazaars but consumers complained about its quality.

A shopkeeper pointed out that as the new crop is ready in Sindh, Balochistan and some parts of Punjab province, the concerned authorities should streamline its supply to the markets in a bid to stabilize its prices.

Mangoes which were available at Rs.70 per kg before advent of Ramazan, are now being sold at Rs.90 to Rs.100 per kg.

The average rate of the good quality peaches has been enhanced from Rs.60-70 per kg to Rs.80-140 by the shopkeepers and vendors.

Similarly, apples are being sold at Rs.120 to Rs.140 per kg despite the new crop has started coming into market.

The people have asked the concerned authorities to keep a vigil on demand and supply of these fruits for keeping them within the reach of common consumers.

Copyright APP (Associated Press of Pakistan), 2011