Flour crisis in Rawalpindi may lead to higher bread costs

A severe flour crisis has emerged even before the start of Ramazan, with a major increase in flour and fine flour prices for the second time in ten days.

The Nanbai Association reported that the price of an 80 kg sack of fine flour has surged to Rs12800, while an 80 kg sack of red flour has increased to Rs11500. This rise represents an additional Rs1200 to 1,800 per sack, creating serious challenges for bakery businesses. Bakers say the shortage of government-supplied flour has disrupted their operations.

They warned that if flour prices continue to rise, they may be forced to increase the price of bread, affecting consumers across the city. Association officials have urged the federal and Punjab governments to take immediate action and ensure the availability of flour at affordable rates to prevent a potential crisis.

In response to the situation, the Nanbai Association has called an emergency meeting of bakers across the Rawalpindi division. Officials emphasized that if the government does not act seriously, they may have no choice but to shut down bakeries temporarily. The association also demanded that authorities take strict measures against the flour mafia, which they say is contributing to the scarcity and price hike, instead of penalizing bakery owners.

Experts note that ensuring a steady supply of flour before Ramadan is crucial to prevent price surges and maintain public access to staple food items. The shortage has caused concern among residents, who rely on bakeries for daily bread, especially during the upcoming month of fasting.

Authorities are now under pressure to stabilize the flour supply, control prices, and prevent black-market practices. Bakers, meanwhile, continue to urge prompt government intervention to secure their livelihoods and ensure that essential food items remain affordable for all citizens during the holy month.