Inflation rises in Peshawar and strains household budgets
Life has become extraordinarily challenging for families as inflation rises in Peshawar, pushing ordinary citizens into severe financial distress. A recent comprehensive survey conducted by a local research institute has brought to light the grim reality faced by low-income households, where soaring prices of daily essentials have completely derailed household budgeting and forced many into a vicious cycle of debt.
Soaring costs and mounting debt
According to the survey findings released at the Peshawar Press Club, nearly nine out of ten low-income households have been compelled to borrow money simply to manage their everyday expenses. What makes the situation even more alarming is that an overwhelming 95.1 per cent of these surveyed families admitted they are struggling to repay their accumulated loans. Essential commodities and services have witnessed a staggering price surge of 35 to 40 per cent, leaving nearly half of the low-income population feeling severely impacted by the economic crunch.
While some families reported marginal increases in their monthly earnings, their overall expenditures have escalated at a much faster pace. Utility bills, including electricity and gas, alongside fuel costs, have created a massive burden for roughly 93 per cent of households. Meanwhile, about 86.4 per cent of families noted a steep rise in their monthly food bills, forcing many to compromise on quality and switch to cheaper, less nutritious food alternatives.
Impact on health, education, and daily mobility
The economic strain goes far beyond the kitchen table. Healthcare has emerged as another critical area of concern, with nearly 79 per cent of households stating they can no longer comfortably afford medical treatments and medicines. Education has suffered a similar fate; more than half of the surveyed families have delayed paying school fees, and a notable percentage has been forced to transfer their children to lower-cost schools.
Transportation and mobility have also taken a major hit due to skyrocketing petroleum prices. With travel costs shooting up significantly, families have drastically cut down their trips to markets, educational institutions, workplaces, and even medical facilities. Experts warn that unless immediate corrective measures are taken to curb inflation and support vulnerable citizens, the socioeconomic fabric of the region will face deeper challenges.