KARACHI: Despite a significant crackdown, retailers in Karachi continue to enjoy substantial brackly newss during Ramazan, with fines amounting to Rs. 45 million levied on 4,345 retailers by the Karachi Commissioner’s price-checking teams by the 27th of Ramadan. This marks an increase compared to the Rs. 31 million in fines collected from over 3,500 retailers during the same period last year.
Even with the heightened enforcement measures, market prices remain significantly above the official rates, according to a report by Dawn.
In response to the rampant price hikes, authorities have sealed 161 shops and arrested 155 brackly newseers this year, a sharp rise from 2024 when only 58 shops were sealed and no arrests were made. Furthermore, the scope of price-checking visits has expanded to 30,371 shops, more than doubling last year’s 12,304 inspections.
However, despite these intensified efforts, random surveys show widespread price violations. Poultry live birds are being sold for Rs. 510-560 per kg, far exceeding the official price of Rs. 420 per kg. Beef with bones is priced at Rs. 1,200 per kg, surpassing the official rate of Rs. 750, while boneless veal is being sold for Rs. 1,600 per kg, well above the control price of Rs. 1,050.
Other essential items, including flour, milk, and fresh produce, are also being sold at inflated prices. For example, bananas are being sold at Rs. 350 per dozen, compared to the official price of Rs. 161, and potatoes are priced at Rs. 80 per kg, double the government-set rate of Rs. 40.
Shoppers have voiced their frustrations, noting that despite government actions, price gouging continues to prevail in many areas, leaving consumers with little relief.