Citizens are expressing outrage over the skyrocketing prices of chicken, which have surged to over Rs600 per kilogramme in Lahore and other cities like Faisalabad and Jhang.
Middle-class families, already grappling with inflation, are finding it increasingly difficult to afford chicken, a key source of protein.
The continuous increase in chicken prices is attributed to growing demand during the wedding season, supply chain disruptions, and alleged manipulation by the poultry mafia. According to the Punjab Poultry Association, the price hike is driven by a supply-demand imbalance and the rising cost of chicks.
Two weeks ago, chicken meat was sold at Rs380–450 per kg. However, a phased increase of Rs150 in a week has pushed prices to over Rs600 per kg in Lahore and Faisalabad, and as high as Rs650 in Jhang. The district administration has remained silent, failing to control the arbitrary pricing.
Poultry farm owners cite a threefold increase in chick prices as the primary cause.
"Earlier, chicks cost Rs60–70, but now they are sold for Rs220 and may reach Rs300 soon," said Zaheer Ali, a poultry farmer. Farmers also face delays of up to 20 days in chick supply, further straining the market.
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Retailers complain about the discrepancy between government-fixed rates and actual farm prices. The government has set the per-kilogramme price of chicken at Rs590, but shopkeepers argue it is impossible to sell at that rate given the high farm costs.
"We are fined for not selling at the government rate, but we’re already operating at a loss," said shopkeeper Imran Lodhi.
Citizens have demanded immediate government intervention to control prices. "It’s impossible for us to buy chicken at these rates," said a frustrated shopper. "If this continues, the poor will be deprived of affordable protein."
The poultry association has called for market-driven pricing instead of imposing government-fixed rates. However, citizens and consumer rights activists urge authorities to take action against the poultry mafia and introduce measures to stabilize prices.
