Aid convoys ease prolonged shortages; concerns remain over supply issues.
PARACHINAR: Residents of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s conflict-ridden Kurram district have found some relief as food prices have dropped following the arrival of aid convoys.
A significant reduction in prices was observed in local markets after the arrival of a large shipment of vegetables. Tomatoes are now priced at Rs150 per kg, onions at Rs250 per kg, and green chilies have fallen from Rs800 to Rs400 per kg.
Similarly, fruit prices have decreased, with oranges dropping to Rs400 from Rs600, and lemons to Rs500 from Rs800. The price of live chicken has halved to Rs500, and chicken meat has reduced from Rs2,000 to Rs1,200 per kg.
However, flour prices remain high, with a 40kg bag costing Rs9,500.
Social activist Mir Afzal Khan emphasized the need to restore the supply of LPG, petrol, and diesel, which are still scarce.
Despite the price drop, road blockages continue to impact daily life. MNA Hameed Hussain stated that all sectors have been affected by these closures.
Peace efforts under the agreement include plans to demolish bunkers, according to KP Chief Minister’s Advisor Barrister Muhammad Ali Saif.
On Friday, a fourth aid convoy carrying food, medicines, and essentials reached Kurram under tight security provided by police, district administration, and security forces.
Kurram has endured severe hardships since tribal violence erupted in November 2024, leaving over 130 dead and resulting in blockades lasting over 100 days.
Although limited transportation of goods has resumed under a peace agreement, the situation remains fragile. Recent attacks on convoys have strained efforts, prompting authorities to establish camps for displaced persons and initiate clearance operations.
