Peshawar: The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) government has written to the federal government urging immediate intervention to ensure the uninterrupted supply of wheat and flour, warning of a potential crisis and possible rise in prices across the province.
According to official correspondence, the provincial government expressed concern that delays in wheat transportation and what it described as unnecessary inspections could disrupt supply chains, leading to shortages in the local market.
Concerns Over Wheat Supply Disruption
The letter stated that KP is not self-sufficient in wheat production and heavily depends on supplies from Punjab to meet its consumption needs. Any disruption in inter-provincial supply, it warned, could directly impact availability and prices of flour in the province.
Officials cautioned that delays could result in a significant price increase, with the cost of a 40-kg flour bag potentially rising by up to Rs4,400, creating further pressure on consumers already facing inflationary challenges.
Wheat Procurement Plan Approved
The KP government noted that its cabinet has already approved the procurement of 225,000 metric tons of wheat to stabilize supply and manage market demand. However, the process is reportedly being affected by delays in transportation and regulatory checks.
The provincial government claimed that these bottlenecks have disrupted the supply chain, resulting in concerns over possible shortages in the coming weeks.
Appeal Under Constitutional Provision
In its letter, the KP government urged the federal authorities to ensure free movement of wheat between provinces under Article 151 of the Constitution, which guarantees inter-provincial trade and commercial activity without unnecessary restrictions.
The province emphasized that smooth inter-provincial trade is essential for maintaining price stability and ensuring adequate availability of essential food items.
Warning of Possible Price Hike
Officials cautioned that if the situation is not addressed promptly, it could trigger a fresh wave of inflation in flour prices across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
They stressed that any disruption in wheat supply would directly impact household budgets, particularly affecting low and middle-income families who are already struggling with rising food costs.
Federal Coordination Requested
The KP government has called on the federal government to take immediate steps to resolve logistical and administrative issues affecting wheat transportation. It requested coordination with relevant authorities to ensure that supply chains remain functional and uninterrupted.
Officials expressed hope that timely intervention would help prevent any potential shortage and stabilize the market.
Conclusion
The KP government’s appeal highlights ongoing concerns over wheat distribution and inter-provincial trade coordination. With rising fears of price increases and supply disruption, the province has urged the federal government to ensure smooth movement of wheat and maintain stability in the flour market to protect consumers from further economic pressure.
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