Sharp Inflation Hits Azad Kashmir During Ramadan: Flour Shortages and Price Hikes in Rawalakot and Poonch Districts

RAWALAKOT: (Azadi Times) – With the onset of Ramadan, residents of Azad Kashmir, particularly in Rawalakot and Poonch districts, are experiencing a sharp rise in inflation. The scarcity of flour from local mills and significant price hikes in essential commodities have added to the citizens’ woes, despite government relief announcements.

According to a survey report by “Dharti,” prices of vegetables, fruits, and other food items have surged by 20 to 30% since the beginning of Ramadan. Common fruits such as bananas, apples, and melons have become more expensive, and the prices of vegetables, especially tomatoes, have more than doubled. The scarcity of flour has been attributed to disruptions in wheat supply caused by a contractors’ strike, which, despite ending after government negotiations, has yet to see the restoration of flour supply. It may take up to two more days for normal supply to resume.

The Azad Kashmir government had announced relief measures for flour during Ramadan, but citizens have yet to see any tangible benefits. In May, administrative officers conducted city visits to monitor prices but lacked a market price formula to accurately assess the artificial price hikes.

Local residents and market observers have called on the administration to take all necessary steps to curb hoarding and control the artificial inflation of prices. There is a growing demand for effective measures to ensure that essential commodities remain affordable during the holy month, ensuring that citizens are not unduly burdened during a time meant for reflection and community support.