Soaring prices of essentials hit common people during festive season

By The Capital

On 16 Nov 2024 19:04:38

Soaring prices of essentials hit common people during festive season

The rapid rise in prices of essential commodities are putting immense pressure on the common people

The rapid rise in prices of essential commodities are putting immense pressure on the common people, especially during the ongoing festival and wedding season. Increased import taxes imposed by the Central government have led to a significant hike in the prices of cooking oils, making them unaffordable for the average person.

For the common and middle classes, the situation has become dire. Even as they try to manage family functions and celebrations during the festive season, the skyrocketing prices of basic items are forcing many to reconsider their plans. Going into the market to buy essentials has become a nerve-wracking experience, with the prices so high that many are left with no choice but to pay or go without. Market sources reveal that the prices of daily-use vegetables have surged by 34 to 40 percent, compounding the hardships faced by families.

Cooking oils, a necessity for preparing meals, have also seen drastic increases. Sunflower oil, for instance, has risen from Rs. 115 per liter to Rs. 150, with some grocery shops selling it for as much as Rs. 160 per liter. Similarly, the price of palm oil has gone up from Rs. 95 per liter to Rs. 130, and groundnut oil has seen an increase from Rs. 145 to Rs. 165 per liter. Even oils used for lamp worship have increased in price, rising from Rs. 108 to Rs. 130. The prices for bulk quantities of oil have also surged significantly, with a 15-liter tin of sunflower oil going up from Rs. 1750 to Rs. 2000.

These sharp increases are causing widespread frustration among the public, who feel helpless in the face of the unrelenting price hikes. Despite numerous announcements regarding price control measures, the government’s actions have not brought relief to the public. In addition to the taxes levied by the government, business syndicates are also contributing to the price hikes, further exacerbating the situation.

As the cost of living continues to rise, the common people are increasingly struggling to make ends meet. With festive celebrations and family functions on the horizon, many are left begging for the government to intervene and bring prices under control. Until effective action is taken, the lives of the common and middle classes are likely to become even more difficult.