The so-called relief measures are temporary fixes and do not address the root causes of inflation
Abeerah Hilal
Across Pakistan, millions of families are struggling to cope as the cost of everyday life continues to climb. From grocery store shelves to electricity bills, inflation has tightened its grip on household budgets, forcing many to make difficult choices just to make ends meet.
According to the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS), the Consumer Price Index (CPI) has recorded a year-on-year inflation rate of over 22% in early 2025. Essentials like wheat, rice, vegetables, fuel, and medicines have all seen significant price hikes, hitting low- and middle-income families the hardest.
A Growing Economic Challenge
Pakistan’s economy has been grappling with a mix of domestic and global challenges, including currency devaluation, rising fuel import costs, and delays in international financial assistance. The rupee has weakened significantly against the dollar, pushing up the cost of imports and increasing the burden on consumers.
Fuel prices, in particular, have had a domino effect. As transportation becomes more expensive, so does the delivery of goods — from farm produce to manufactured items — resulting in higher retail prices across the board.
Middle Class under Pressure
For Pakistan’s growing middle class, inflation is eroding financial stability. Monthly expenses for rent, utilities, school fees, and groceries now consume the bulk of household income. Many families are cutting back on non-essential spending, while others are relying on loans or credit to get by.
Food Insecurity on the Rise
One of the most alarming consequences of inflation is the rise in food insecurity. The World Food Program (WFP) estimates that over 38% of Pakistanis face moderate to severe food insecurity. Urban slums and rural areas are particularly affected, with malnutrition rates increasing among children.
Government Response and Public Criticism
The government has announced several short-term relief measures, including Ehsaas cash transfer programs and subsidies on essential commodities. However, critics argue that these are temporary fixes and do not address the root causes of inflation.
As inflation continues to rise, the burden on ordinary Pakistani families grows heavier by the day. While short-term relief efforts offer some support, the need for sustainable economic reforms has never been more urgent. Without decisive action to stabilize prices, boost income opportunities, and strengthen social safety nets, millions will remain trapped in a cycle of financial hardship. The voices of struggling families across the country serve as a clear call to policymakers: economic recovery must begin at the household level, where the real cost of living is felt every single day.
Read: Pakistan, Governance Failure and the Inflation
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Abeerah Hilal is student at Mass Communication Department, University of Karachi, Sindh
