LOW-INCOME families and vulnerable groups have suffered greatly as a result of growing inflation. The cost of living has increased dramatically over the previous years. With inflation reaching over 27 per cent, families are finding it more difficult to meet their basic needs.

The cost of essentials, like food and fuel, has gone up by 15-30pc. Families that are already having a hard time making ends meet are under tremendous strain from this sudden rise.

Many are compelled to make difficult choices, including skipping meals or putting off essential medical care in order to devote their meagre resources to rising grocery costs. Vulnerable pop-ulations are disproportionately affected by inflation, such as elderly people as well as single-parent households, who frequently spend 60-70pc of their income on necessities.

Studies reveal that more than 40pc of low-income households are already expe-riencing food insecurity. In addition, many families are reducing their spending on essentials as their purchasing power has dropped. According to research, one in three low-income families has been forced to cut back on healthcare spending because of growing expenses, which puts people’s health at risk.

The government must take immediate measures to lessen these difficulties, and help those who are most impacted by this economic catastrophe. Increasing social assistance, offering food subsidies, and putting price caps on all essential items can be beneficial in this regard.

Mehar Khan
Karachi

Published in Dawn, December 21st, 2024