In a time when inflation is already weighing heavily on people across Pakistan, citizens of Lahore and other major cities are now facing yet another blow — an increase in naan and roti prices.
The Muttahida Nanbai Association has officially announced that the price of naan and khameeri roti will now be Rs. 30 each at all tandoors in the city.
This decision comes at a time when food, gas, and flour prices are already at record highs. Tandoor owners say they can no longer afford to sell at old rates as the costs of flour, rent, and gas continue to rise.
Meanwhile, the Punjab government has distanced itself from the price hike, clarifying that no official change has been made in the government’s approved price list. This situation has once again raised the question: how long will citizens have to suffer as even basic food items become more expensive?
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Announced By | Muttahida Nanbai Association Lahore |
| New Price | Rs. 30 per naan/roti |
| Old Price | Rs. 25 per naan/roti |
| Reason for Increase | Rising flour and gas prices |
| Official Government Price | Rs. 14 for plain roti |
Why Has the Price of Naan and Roti Increased?
According to the Nanbai Association, the increase in naan and roti prices is mainly due to the sharp rise in flour costs.
A sack of fine flour (maida) that previously cost Rs. 4,500 is now being sold for Rs. 5,000. Additionally, rent, gas bills, and labor wages have all gone up, making it nearly impossible for tandoor owners to maintain older prices.
The association explained that this decision was made after several internal meetings. They also said that if the government lowers the price of flour or offers relief, they will reduce the naan and roti prices back to Rs. 25.
What Are Tandoor Owners Saying About the Increase?
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Main Cost Factors | Flour, gas, and rent hikes |
| Key Demand | Government should reduce flour prices |
| Public Pressure | Drop in sales due to inflation |
| New Selling Rate | Rs. 30 for naan and roti |
| Future Plans | Possible revision if government intervenes |
Tandoor owners say they understand people’s frustration but claim they had no other choice. Rising operational costs have forced them to raise prices. They insist the decision wasn’t made for profit but for survival.
What Is the Punjab Government’s Response?
The Punjab government has clarified that it has no involvement in the increase in naan and roti prices.
According to the Punjab Food Department, the official rate of plain roti remains Rs. 14 and has not been changed.
Officials also stated that monitoring teams are active in the field to prevent tandoor owners from overcharging. Citizens have been encouraged to report any shop selling roti or naan at higher prices than the government-approved rate.
Public Reaction – Is This Price Hike Justified?
The increase in naan and roti prices has caused frustration among Lahore’s residents.
For most families, naan and roti are essential food items, and even a small increase can disrupt household budgets. Many citizens argue that when salaries remain stagnant, continuous price hikes make survival more difficult.
Some are demanding that the government hold immediate talks with the Nanbai Association to find a middle ground and provide relief to the public.
Can the Government Control Flour Prices?
| Item | Current Price | Previous Price |
|---|---|---|
| Fine Flour (20 kg sack) | Rs. 5,000 | Rs. 4,500 |
| Monthly Gas Bill | Rs. 15,000–20,000 | Rs. 10,000 |
| Worker Wages | Rs. 18,000 | Rs. 12,000 |
Experts believe that if the government ensures a stable supply of flour and acts against hoarders, the cost burden on tandoor owners will automatically decrease. Once flour prices stabilize, there will be no justification for increasing naan and roti rates again.
Could There Be Another Increase in Naan and Roti Prices?
Market analysts warn that if gas or flour prices continue to rise, there may be another increase in naan and roti prices soon.
The Nanbai Association has hinted that they may raise prices by another Rs. 5 per item if operating costs keep climbing.
Therefore, timely action from the government is essential to prevent further financial strain on the public.
How Can People Cope with Rising Food Costs?
Experts recommend that households plan their meals and spending carefully.
Those who buy naan daily might save money by making roti or chapati at home. Bulk purchases and proper storage of flour can also reduce daily food expenses.
Small changes in household habits can make a big difference during times of inflation.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the increase in naan and roti prices is not just a small price change—it’s a reflection of the larger economic challenges faced by Pakistanis today.
For low- and middle-income families, even a Rs. 5 rise in bread prices can be devastating. The government must act quickly to stabilize flour prices, regulate gas costs, and support both consumers and small business owners.
Ensuring stable naan and roti prices isn’t just about food—it’s about maintaining public trust and ensuring economic stability for everyone.
Official Website:
🔗 https://food.punjab.gov.pk
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Why did naan and roti prices increase in Lahore?
The main reason is the rising cost of flour, gas, and shop rent. Tandoor owners say their expenses have become unmanageable.
2. What is the new price of naan and roti?
Both naan and khameeri roti are now being sold for Rs. 30 each across Lahore.
3. Has the government approved this price hike?
No, the Punjab government says it has not changed the official price list. The official rate for plain roti remains Rs. 14.
4. Can the government control these prices?
Yes, by reducing flour costs, preventing hoarding, and offering relief to tandoor owners, the government can help bring prices down.
5. Will naan and roti prices increase again in the future?
If flour or gas prices rise further, another increase is likely unless the government steps in with effective measures.
