PESHAWAR: Flour prices have risen once again in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa after disruptions to wheat and flour transportation from Punjab created supply pressure across the province.
The flour industry in KP depends heavily on wheat supplies from Punjab. According to official estimates, the province produces nearly 1.2 million metric tons of wheat every year. However, the total annual demand stands at around 5.2 million metric tons. Therefore, the province faces a shortfall of nearly 4 million metric tons, which it usually covers through wheat and flour purchases from Punjab.
Officials from the local flour mills association said transportation hurdles and restrictions on inter-provincial supply routes have disturbed the regular flow of wheat. As a result, mill owners now purchase wheat at higher prices. Consequently, flour prices rise in wholesale and retail markets across the province.
Market reports show that the price of a 20-kilogram flour bag increased sharply during the past week. The rate moved from Rs 2200 to nearly Rs 2400 in several districts. The increase has added financial pressure on low-income families and daily wage earners who already struggle with rising food costs.
Flour dealers also warned that prices may continue to increase if supply conditions do not improve soon. They urged authorities to ensure the smooth transportation of wheat between provinces in order to stabilize the market.
Meanwhile, the KP government approved the purchase of 225,000 metric tons of wheat and released funds for procurement. In addition, provincial authorities sent formal letters to the federal government and the Punjab government. The letters described restrictions on inter-provincial wheat transportation as unconstitutional and demanded the immediate removal of barriers affecting wheat movement into KP.
Economic experts believe stable wheat supply chains remain essential to control inflation and protect consumers from further price shocks.
