Substantial increase in prices of essential kitchen items

The prices of most of the essential kitchen items registered a substantial increase in the month of January as compared to the preceding month, reveals a survey conducted by Business Recorder here on Saturday. Traders and wholesalers in different markets of Rawalpindi/Islamabad attributed the increase in various kitchen items to hike in petroleum products prices, seasonal effects, short supply and high demand.
They said that due to cold weather, a significant decline is witnessed in vegetables and fruits supply, which directly affect prices. Similarly, prices of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), firewood and POL substantially increased, which resulted in increasing transportation charges.
During the ongoing month, LPG price was increased by Rs 16 to Rs 27 per kg. Prices of some food items also registered a nominal decline, while prices of few items remained unchanged. Chicken prices increased by Rs 10 to 15 per kg as in the last month it was available at Rs 140 to Rs 145; however, it is being sold at Rs 155 to Rs 160 per kg. No change is observed in sugar prices as it is being sold at Rs 50 per kg, while at Utility Stores it is available at Rs 42 per kg. However, gur prices further decreased in the on-going month as it is being sold at Rs 1,000 to Rs 1,200 per 5 kg against Rs 1,200 to Rs 1,500 per 5 kg during last month.
Survey further noted that onions are being sold at Rs 50 per kg against Rs 45 per kg last month. Tomato prices increased from Rs 60 to Rs 80 per kg in the start of the current month, however, now it is being sold at Rs 50 to Rs 60 per kg. Shimla mirch is being sold at Rs 90 per kg against Rs 75 per kg; green chillies are being sold at Rs 130 per kg against Rs 115-120 and cauliflower at Rs 45 per kg against Rs 55 last month.
Prices of pulses registered a nominal increase in the ongoing month. Prices of all varieties of rice remained stable during the ongoing month as compared to the past. Broken rice was available at Rs 60-70 in different markets, while basmati depending on quality was available at Rs 100-120 per kg. Guava price remained unchanged and is being sold at Rs 50 per kg.