LOWER DIR: The prices of essential commodities, including fruits, vegetables, and grocery items, have witnessed a significant surge in the local bazaars in Ramazan, making it difficult for people to afford them.

The consumers complained butchers were charging Rs1,100 for one kilogramme of beef in violation of the official rate list, while other food items had also seen a steep rise in prices in Munda, Mayar, Samarbagh and Kambat bazaars in Jandol. They regretted the district administration had failed to enforce price regulations, allowing profiteers to exploit the situation.

They voiced their frustration, stating that while official price lists were issued, they were rarely implemented in markets. They said vendors continued to sell goods at their desired rates without fear of consequences.

The consumers urged the authorities to take strict action against hoarders and profiteers to ensure availability of essential commodities at reasonable prices.

Meanwhile, the district administration has assured the public that efforts were underway to curb price hike.

In this regard, the deputy commissioner has instructed officials to conduct market inspections and take action against violators. However, residents remain skeptical, emphasising the need for more effective and immediate measures to control inflation and provide relief during the fasting month.

RELIEF PACKAGE: A total of 20 deserving people from different areas of Lower Dir on Friday were provided with free auto-rickshaws, loaders and fruit carts to enable them to start small businesses and achieve financial independence.

Helping Hands for Relief and Development (HHRD), a non-profit organisation, organised a function in Shamshi Khan area of Talash as part of its rehabilitation programme for flood-hit individuals.

Speaking on the occasion, HHRD’s operational director Sajid Ali Chandhar and others emphasised the need for collective efforts by all stakeholders for rehabilitation of marginalised communities. They said the financial assistance provided to 20 deserving individuals for small businesses was made possible through the generous contributions of the Muslim community of the United States.

The speakers urged philanthropists and government institutions to play their role in assisting and rehabilitating individuals with special needs, ensuring their integration into the mainstream society.

Published in Dawn, March 8th, 2025