Inflation in Rawalpindi's open market continues to affect fruit and vegetable prices. Green coriander, once given free with vegetable purchases, has reached Rs80 (US$0.29) per bunch, the highest level recorded. Many retailers have stopped selling it, and it is now available in only about half the shops.
Potatoes are priced at Rs100 (US$0.36) per kilogram, onions range between Rs60 and Rs70 (US$0.22–0.25), and tomatoes are at Rs100 (US$0.36). Colocasia (arvi) is sold at Rs200 (US$0.72), cucumbers at Rs80 (US$0.29), bitter gourd at Rs170 (US$0.61), okra at Rs200 (US$0.72), and peas at Rs280 (US$1.01) per kilogram. Garlic costs Rs350 (US$1.26) and ginger Rs550 (US$1.98). Cauliflower is at Rs150 (US$0.54), lemons at Rs400 (US$1.44), and green chilies at Rs150 (US$0.54) per kilogram.
Fruit prices also remain high. Apples are sold between Rs250 and Rs400 (US$0.90–1.44) per kilogram, mangoes between Rs250 and Rs300 (US$0.90–1.08), and papaya at Rs400 (US$1.44). Cherries are at Rs450 (US$1.62) per box, coconuts at Rs400 (US$1.44) each, jamun at Rs300 (US$1.08), peaches at Rs300 (US$1.08), grapes at Rs450 (US$1.62), bananas at Rs200 (US$0.72) per dozen, apricots at Rs300 (US$1.08), pears at Rs200 (US$0.72), cardamom at Rs700 (US$2.52), plums between Rs350 and Rs400 (US$1.26–1.44), and melons at Rs120 (US$0.43) per kilogram.
Source: The Express Tribune