LAHORE: Punjab’s Minister for Price Control, Salma Butt, said that the government is taking continuous measures to provide relief to the public. Speaking to the media during a visit to the Sundas Foundation in Lahore, she explained that heavy rains, road blockages, and the closure of the Afghan border have led to a disruption in supply chains, causing prices to surge.
“Since tomatoes are largely imported, any obstacles in transportation directly affect their market rates,” she said. Butt added that the difference between demand and supply in open markets has also contributed to the rise. “The government is working on the issue, and the public will see relief soon,” she assured.
She further stated that strict monitoring has been enforced across all districts of Punjab and that indiscriminate action is being taken against profiteers. “Those involved in price gouging will not be spared,” she warned.
Salma Butt added that the government has inspected several markets in recent days and expects onion supplies to improve by November 1, while chicken prices have already started to decline—a positive development for consumers.
Price Control Department’s Response
According to a spokesperson for the Punjab Price Control Department, a total of 281 trucks carrying tomatoes have arrived in various markets across the province over the past two days. On the most recent day alone, 153 trucks entered Punjab, with 48 trucks reaching Lahore’s Badami Bagh Market.
The spokesperson said that prices are gradually stabilizing as supply improves, but hoarding and profiteering in some areas are keeping rates artificially high.
The official rate list sets tomato prices at Rs. 185 per kilogram, but in many city areas, tomatoes are still being sold for as much as Rs. 500 per kilogram. Residents in Garden Town, Garhi Shahu, and nearby localities have urged district authorities to take strict action against violators who ignore the official price list.
Prices Continue to Soar
Despite the government’s efforts to control inflation, tomato prices across Punjab have continued to rise sharply, leaving consumers frustrated and struggling to afford the essential kitchen item.
Residents say the skyrocketing tomato prices have forced many households to reduce their use of tomatoes in daily meals. Citizens have urged the government to take immediate action to bring the prices down.
In Faisalabad, tomatoes are being sold at Rs. 500 per kilogram, while prices in Multan and Lahore have reached Rs. 450 and Rs. 400 per kilogram, respectively — far above the official rate of Rs. 175 per kilogram. Traders claim that the closure of trade routes with Afghanistan has disrupted supply, contributing to the price hike.
