LAHORE: Flooding and continuous rains have triggered sharp increases in vegetable prices, with shortages hitting markets in major cities.
In Islamabad, tomatoes have completely disappeared from cheap markets, while the prices of potatoes, onions, and other vegetables have surged beyond the reach of many consumers.
Shopkeepers say tomatoes are selling in wholesale markets at Rs300 per kg, compared to the official government rate of Rs123 per kg.
The impact extends beyond the capital. In Jhelum, heavy rains and flooding have devastated agricultural lands and crops, causing steep price hikes. Tomatoes, which sold at Rs50 per kg just a week ago, are now priced at Rs220 per kg.
Other vegetables, including potatoes, onions, cabbage, and bitter gourd, have also become 150 percent more expensive, according to traders at Sadar Sabzi Mandi.
Citizens say the shortage has pushed essential food items out of reach and are calling on authorities to take urgent steps to stabilize prices and ensure supply.
