Rice prices continue to climb across Punjab, adding to the financial pressure on households as essential food items become increasingly expensive.
According to market sources, the price of a 25-kilogram bag of new rice has increased by up to Rs. 400 over the past few months, leaving both consumers and shopkeepers concerned about the ongoing trend.
Retail prices of new rice per kilogram have now reached between Rs. 288 and Rs. 305, depending on quality and location. The steady increase has made it difficult for low-income families to manage daily meals, with many saying that cooking rice along with other essentials, such as chicken, has become increasingly unaffordable.
Shopkeepers say higher wholesale rates and transportation costs are being passed on to consumers, while buyers fear further increases if the current trend continues.
Consumers have urged authorities to monitor prices and ensure better market control, warning that continued increases in staple food items are placing an unsustainable burden on household budgets.
