Citizens across Pakistan are facing severe hardship as tomato prices remain critically high, with no hope for immediate relief this month. According to recent reports, prices are not expected to decrease in October because the new crop from Sindh is not yet ready for the market.
The escalating prices have left households struggling, with many kitchens described as “desolate” without this essential ingredient. The current rates are at unbearable levels: in Karachi, tomatoes are selling for Rs. 300 per kg, while in Lahore, the price has hit Rs. 400. Peshawar and Quetta are seeing prices around Rs. 350 per kg. The situation is even more dire in Sindh’s own cities of Badin and Padidan, where tomatoes are reportedly being sold for a staggering Rs. 600 per kg.
The crisis stems from the recent monsoon rains, which caused severe damage to the crops. The Sindh Agriculture Department confirmed that the rains destroyed the tomato crop on more than 80,000 acres.
Although the crop has been replanted and harvesting is expected by the end of October, it will only reach the markets in early November. Officials indicate that citizens must endure the high prices for at least another 15 days before the arrival of the new crop is expected to bring stability and relief.
