Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah has issued a stern warning to the federal government over the ongoing controversy surrounding the canals project. Speaking on SAMAA TV’s show Red Line with Talat, Shah emphasized that while his party does not wish to withdraw support from the federal government, it may be forced to reconsider its position if the project is not halted. Highlighting the importance of dialogue, Shah stated, “Let’s talk. Dialogue is the only way forward.”
He also expressed concern about decisions made by interim governments, referencing past actions by the caretaker setup and IRSA (Indus River System Authority). Shah urged the ruling PML-N party to avoid making hasty decisions that could lead to prolonged disputes, emphasizing that political stability should not be undermined by controversial projects.
Meanwhile, residents of Karachi and Quetta have received relief as local authorities announced significant reductions in the prices of naan, roti, and chapati due to public pressure and fluctuating flour prices. In Quetta, the price of a 360-gram roti has been cut by Rs10, now costing Rs30. Officials warned vendors against selling bread at higher prices, promising strict enforcement.
In Karachi, similar measures have been taken. The Commissioner announced that a 100-gram chapati will now cost Rs10, a 120-gram naan Rs15, and a 150-gram naan Rs17. Citizens have been urged to report any violations, and strict action will be taken against those who do not comply with the official rates. Hassan Naqvi, a senior official, confirmed that the maximum price for a 180-gram naan has been set at Rs22. He stressed that overpricing is punishable and all shops must display government-issued price lists prominently. A control room has been set up to monitor the situation.
The price reductions follow a recent government move to lower flour prices in Karachi after a gap of one and a half months. According to the latest notification, No. 2.5 flour is now priced at Rs83 per kg wholesale and Rs87 per kg retail. Fine flour is available at Rs88 per kg wholesale and Rs92 per kg retail, while chakki (stone-milled) flour is priced at Rs100 per kg. Despite the official rates, the open market still sees fine flour selling between Rs90 and Rs100 per kg, with chakki flour ranging from Rs110 to Rs115 per kg.
