Pakistan is witnessing a countrywide revolt following the government’s decision to once again raise the prices of domestic natural gas, exacerbating the already dire economic conditions. The move has sparked outrage among citizens, particularly in the capital city of Karachi, who are grappling with the consequences of the deteriorating economy.
Irfan, a Dhaba owner in Karachi, expressed frustration, stating that the gas price hike has become unbearable for small businesses like his. He highlighted the exorbitant gas bills, with his own reaching a staggering 4 Lakh Pakistani rupees (PKR), far surpassing his income. Irfan lamented the impact on essential food items and the poor quality of gas cylinders, which further strain businesses.
Abid, a daily wage worker, echoed similar sentiments, pleading for government relief amid rising prices of essential commodities. With meager earnings of PKR 900 per day and exorbitant rent, Abid struggles to make ends meet, resorting to cooking with wood due to unaffordable gas prices.
Jan Muhammad, another laborer, voiced concerns about the inability to afford his children’s education amidst the economic turmoil, emphasizing the urgent need for government assistance to ensure survival.
Muhammad Imran Zia underscored the widespread despair among the populace, citing not only the gas price hike but also the overall inflation affecting household items. He criticized the government’s failure to alleviate the economic burden despite promises of improvement post-elections, emphasizing the need for job opportunities and reduced cost of living to prevent a rise in crime due to financial desperation.
The grievances expressed by Karachi’s residents reflect the broader challenges faced by ordinary Pakistanis, highlighting the urgent need for comprehensive economic reforms and government intervention to mitigate the hardships inflicted by rising prices and stagnant incomes.
