PESHAWAR: Nearly nine in ten households in Peshawar have borrowed money to cover everyday expenses as inflation continues to climb, a new survey has found.
The Institute of Regional Studies conducted the research across 462 households in the city, alongside focus group discussions and consultations with stakeholders. Its chairman, Dr Mohammad Iqbal Khalil, presented the findings at the Peshawar Press Club on Wednesday.
The survey found that 89 per cent of families had taken loans for daily spending, while 95.1 per cent were struggling to repay them. Prices of essential goods and services have risen by 35 to 40 per cent, and 48.7 per cent of households in low-income areas said they had been severely affected.
Incomes lag behind prices
About 67.3 per cent of households reported an increase in income, but their expenses had grown at a considerably faster pace. Utility and fuel bills were among the heaviest burdens, with 93 per cent of respondents reporting higher electricity, gas and fuel costs.
Spending on food had risen for 86.4 per cent of households. Many families said they had switched to cheaper food products to cope with the higher prices.
Health and education squeezed
The rising cost of healthcare emerged as another major pressure point. Around 79.4 per cent of households said they faced difficulty meeting medical expenses.
Education was also eating into family budgets. About 59.1 per cent of respondents said they had delayed school fee payments, while 19.2 per cent reported moving their children from more expensive schools to lower-cost ones.
Fuel costs reshape daily life
Dr Khalil said higher petroleum prices had added to the burden on households and curtailed their daily mobility. Petroleum product prices have risen by around 50 per cent since February 2026, and 84.6 per cent of surveyed households reported higher transport expenses.
The squeeze on travel changed household behaviour across the board. The survey found 79.8 per cent of families had cut trips to markets, 51.6 per cent had reduced travel related to education, 49.2 per cent reported fewer journeys for work, and 37.7 per cent had cut back on travel for medical needs.
What did the Peshawar inflation survey find?
It found 89 per cent of households borrowed for daily expenses, 95.1 per cent struggled to repay loans, and essentials cost 35 to 40 per cent more.
Who conducted the survey and how?
The Institute of Regional Studies surveyed 462 Peshawar households, with focus group discussions and stakeholder consultations. Findings were presented by chairman Dr Mohammad Iqbal Khalil.
How have rising fuel prices affected Peshawar households?
Petroleum prices are up about 50 per cent since February 2026, forcing most families to cut market trips, school runs, work journeys and medical travel.
