(2 May 2019) LEAD IN:
There are complaints about price hikes in the lead up to Ramadan in Pakistan.
Citizens and shopkeepers call for government intervention as a market in Karachi prepares for the Muslim Holy Month.
STORY-LINE:
A buzzing market filled with shoppers, preparing ahead of the Holy Month of Ramadan.
Dates pile high at this fruit and vegetable market in Karachi - water and dates are the traditional Muslim way to break the fast during Ramadan.
Fruits are a particular favourite for the sunrise and sunset meals Muslims have during the fasting period.
Dates are traditionally eaten to break the fast known as Iftar. It is recommended that 2 -3 are eaten to help restore low blood sugar.
However prices for these popular snacks can rise during Ramadan.
Shaista Bibi is stocking up on essentials before Ramadan begins next week.
She is concerned that prices will go up when it starts.
"Don't know what would happen during Ramadan as I can only get one kilogram of melon for the price of two and a half kilograms."
The prices tend to increase due to high demand. Bibi explains melons currently cost 100 Rupees (0.7 USD) per 100 kilograms but this will soon increase.
"The milk and yoghurt, which is an essential commodity during Ramadan would be out of reach during the price hike. I am really worried about the price hike. Someone should think of a solution. In such a situation it's so difficult for the poor people to break their fasts."
Prices can go up by 10 to 15 per cent.
The provincial and federal governments usually announce a Ramadan Package to help alleviate some of the price hikes for essential goods such as: flour, pulses, ghee, sugar, dates, milk, fruit and vegetables.
It is not only the shoppers that rely on the relief packages but also those running the market stalls.
Shopkeeper, Fahim Ahmed, explains, "the government should provide relief for people. No one can do better than what the government can do. Everything is out of reach for the common man. I'm a shopkeeper and if I buy goods at higher prices then I have to sell them at a higher price. It is the government that is responsible for the price hike by putting up taxes. If they bring down taxes then the prices would be in everyone's range."
This year the government has yet to announce any relief package.
In Pakistan, economic growth is expected to slow from about 5% last year to close to 3% this year.
Cleric, Maulana Muhammad Ikram, explains, how the meaning of Ramadan is changing as people look for profit gain rather than observing the teachings of Islam.
"The month of Ramadan gives the message of compassion, where Muslims are concerned about one another's well being. Unfortunately, in our society, the situation has become bleak. Whenever such a situation arises, instead of nurturing the self in line with the teachings of the Quran and the Prophet Muhammad, people are now more focused on getting material benefits. That is wrong and forbidden and one should avoid it. Islam doesn't teach that."
There is also stalls for prayer mats, beads and hats.
Naeem Ahmed, has come to the market to purchase a prayer cap, "we have to pray in the holy month of Ramadan so I'm here to buy things that are needed for it," he explains.
Most restaurants and supermarkets offer a variety of discounts all aiming to entice customers during the Holy Month.
Ramadan starts the day after the sighting of the crescent moon that marks the beginning of a new lunar month. This year it is expected to fall on May 6 - 7, in Pakistan.
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