Lahore’s district administration has struggled to enforce the official price list, resulting in significant overcharging on beef, mutton, chicken, fruits, vegetables, and pulses. According to a national daily, prices for these items are reportedly 25% to 100% higher than the government-set rates.
Chicken sellers have continued to defy regulations by refusing to display rate lists and rejecting official prices. Overcharging on chicken meat has persisted for two weeks, with sellers accusing authorities of issuing unrealistic rates.
Similarly, fruit and vegetable vendors are overcharging customers. Citrus fruits are priced by weight rather than by the dozen, as fixed by the government, with buyers paying well above the listed rates. Vegetables are also sold at inflated prices, with lower-quality produce being charged at premium rates.
Official rates saw minor adjustments this week. Chicken price was reduced by Rs. 3 per kg to Rs. 394-408 but sold at Rs. 550-600. Chicken meat was fixed at Rs. 591 per kg but retailed between Rs. 700-1200. Potatoes, onions, and tomatoes also faced substantial markups, with prices often double the official rates.
For example, A-grade potatoes were set at Rs. 55-60 per kg but sold at Rs. 100. A-grade tomatoes were priced at Rs. 118-130 per kg but sold at Rs. 200-220.