LARKANA: Inflation continues to haunt poor people as prices of essential commodities continue to soar even after the arrival of the new government in the Center.

During a survey conducted at Larkana, Ratodero and Naundero on Wednesday, it was revealed that wheat flour was being sold in the open market at Rs70 per kg as a bag of 39 kgs was sold from 2250 to 2300 by the wholesalers to retailers. Surf powder one kg was sold previously at Rs360 which is being sold now at Rs400. Gold Leaf cigarettes were sold at Rs1950 per 10 packs costing each pack Rs170 which is being sold now at Rs200. Bath soap (48 bars), low quality, rates increased from 1950 to 2070 per carton. Captain cigarettes from Rs770 to 870. Ghee (12 kg pack) rates increased from Rs4500 to 4700. Tea (one kg) rates increased from Rs950 to 1100 and Sugar rates increased from Rs3700 to 4000 per bag in the open market and were being sold at Rs90 per kg.

Tomatoes were being sold at Rs60 per kg and lemons at Rs640 per kg which too were in great demand. These two items are massively used by the fasting people during holy month of Ramadan. Corruption at Utility Stores is continuing without any proper check as ghee, sugar and other subsidized items were being sold openly and daringly by the relevant incharge to the influential shopkeepers who were minting money without any relief to the common poor man.

Former President, Larkana Chamber of Commerce and Industry Abdul Ghaffar Shaikh said that the government will have to take drastic actions against the profiteers and hoarders otherwise price hike will never be controlled. He said worst affected are the daily wagers and labourers who have been denied two meals. He said that the government should also consider lowering duties and taxes on imported raw material to stabilize prices or establish its bazaars where poverty-stricken people can buy essential items of daily use.