Srinagar 1-Dec: The skyrocketing prices of daily use commodities including fuels, fruits, milk, meat and vegetables have irked consumers who have expressed anguish over failure of administration to control price-hike in the valley.A market survey conducted by this scribe here amid restrictions on Saturday revealed that one dozen ‘Banana’ and one kilogram melon are being sold at Rs 100-120 and Rs120-150 in city markets whereas one kilogram of grapes is being sold at Rs220 -400, which are beyond purchasing power of middle class.Cooking gas consumers were shocked to see the sudden increase in the price of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) cylinders.Locals in Kashmir said with the latest hike in the fuel prices, they were finding it difficult to make ends meet and it would put more burdens on their monthly household budget.Sameer Ahmad, a resident of old city, said that earlier the spike in prices of oil and pulses and now the rise in the cost of gas made his kitchen budget go awry.“The government should curb the rise in prices of everyday items,” he said.While the price of mustard oil was Rs 110 to 120 per kg last year, the price is now Rs 185 to 195 per kg. Refined oil is now being sold for Rs 150 to 165.Another city resident Ghulam Nabi said, “Fuel is an essential commodity and hike in their prices affects the monthly budget of any income group. Without a doubt, single-earning hand families with limited income will be the most affected. The government seems to have failed to deliver its promise of easing problems of people.Hamidullaha of Khanyar who bought peas for Rupees 60 per KG said that Aam Adami has no place to complaint against loot and no one is out there to take moral responsibility of doing job honestly despite getting handsome salary every month.People alleged that shopkeepers are increasing the prices of goods like never before and the poor consumer has no option but to continue to suffer.The consumers have requested Commissioners, Deputy Commissioners and other senior officials of district administration to make a close check on price of daily commodities and take strict action against profiteers and hoarders imperative for provision of all essential items to Consumers at affordable rate. (CNS)
