PRICES of commodities and other items are reduced by many Muslim countries in Ramazan, while companies offer subsidised rates. However, this is not so in Pakistan where prices go beyond the reach of the people. People find it difficult to buy essential edible items for Iftar and Sehri.

In the coming Ramazan, the situation will further aggravate owing to the 2016-17 budget when the imposition of new taxes will further give a pretext to retailers to increase the prices. The budget makers are requested to devise ways and means to ensure that prices of essential commodities do not go up steeply.

Sadam Rustamani Hyderabad (2) WITH Ramazan almost a week away, it has been noticed that prices of essentials, including various fruits, have gone up and are beyond thereachofthe poorandthe lower middle class.

The prices of potatoes, tomatoes, garlic and ginger have increased in local markets.

Similarly, fruit prices have also gone up.

Mangoes, plum, apricot, banana, papaya, lychee and grewia are being sold at higher prices. This is a disappointing situation for the common man. It seems the government hasn`t done anything to ensure that people should have some relief during this Ramazan.

Engr. Mansoor Ahmed Karachi