The wheat crisis has intensified across Balochistan, including Quetta.
According to sources, the Balochistan government has yet to purchase even 100,000 bags of wheat from PASSCO. Talks between the provincial Food Department and PASSCO have continued for several months without a purchase being made.
Market sources said the price of a 20kg flour bag in Quetta had reached Rs3,330. In Khuzdar, Chagai, Washuk, Kech and other districts, a 50kg bag of flour now costs more than Rs8,000.
Responding to the situation, Balochistan’s food secretary said negotiations were underway to purchase wheat from PASSCO. He added that setting flour prices and enforcing the prescribed rates were the responsibilities of the Industries Department and deputy commissioners.
