Lahore residents struggle as inflation drives up food, rent and utility costs

In Lahore, Pakistan, inflation has accelerated the cost of everyday items such as flour, cooking oil, pulses, vegetables and other staples, creating severe budget strain for low-income families. Daily-wage earners and pension recipients say their earnings have not kept up with the price hikes, forcing many to cut back on meals and to prioritize rent, medicines and other essential bills. Prices for vegetables like potatoes and tomatoes are reported at roughly Rs 150 to Rs 300 per kilogram, while LPG is allegedly being sold above the official rate, prompting calls for stricter enforcement of price controls.

Residents expressed frustration that recent reductions in petrol prices have not lowered food costs. Rickshaw driver Usman Ali highlighted that the combined rise in fuel and commodity prices leaves him with virtually no savings after meeting household needs. The situation has sparked public anger and demands for government intervention to ease the financial burden on vulnerable households.