KARACHI: The prices of building materials have risen sharply in the last two years with construction activities picking up momentum after launching of housing and highrise projects.

For example, the price of mixer machine including trolley, engine and tyres has swelled to Rs420,000-450,000 from Rs400,000 in the last quarter of 2020 due to massive hike in iron rates. Also the price of lifts with 50ft height steel structure for carrying mixture of cement and concrete to the roof hovers between Rs350,000-400,000.

A mixer machine manufacturer in Liaquatabad area told Dawn the iron price of 8mm gauge now costs Rs170-193 per kg depending on the quality as compared to Rs137-140 in the last quarter of 2020 while 16-horse power engine price is now Rs64,000 as compared to Rs52,000-55,000 a few months back.

He said mixer machines are not readily available for on-spot sales. “We give one to two weeks’ time for delivery after getting an advance booking,” he added.

Transporters of mixer machines also demand more due to rising petroleum prices, he said, adding that these mixer machines are being utilised in Karachi mainly by builders, contractors and developers.

An operator of mixer machine said the life of a mixer machine usually ranges between five and six years followed by engine lifespan of six months to one year depending on the usage.

He said nine months back the lift for five-storey height was available at Rs175,000, which now costs Rs200,000.

He said massive construction activities have boosted demand for various building materials used in housing and highrise projects. He added that the mixer machine set was available at Rs250,000-300,000 two years back.

Hassan Bakhshi, former chairman Association of Builders and Developers, said the price of floor tiles has increased to Rs1,450 per sq ft from Rs1,300 in 2018 while bathroom tiles now cost Rs1,140 as compared to Rs1,050 two years back.

Cement price is now tagged at over Rs600 per 50kg bag as compared to Rs530 in 2018 while steel bar price has gone up by 47 per cent to 140,000 per tonne now.

Doors with frame are available at Rs13,000 versus Rs10,000 for (3.5x7ft six) while aluminum rate climbed to Rs650 from Rs525 per sq ft.

He said the above rates are wholesale rates on which few builders deal due to their bulk orders in cash and advance booking.

Published in Dawn, February 4th, 2021