Srinagar: Kashmir’s staple food, the traditional Rs: 5 ‘baking roti,’ has become increasingly scarce in local markets due to a recent price hike.
The surge in cost has left many residents struggling to find the smaller version Rs: 5 bread they rely on daily, prompting calls for government intervention.
As per the details available with the news agency (JKNS), baking roti is a cornerstone of Kashmiri cuisine, consumed by families across the region. However, the rising prices have led to a shortage of its smaller version, the Rs: 5 bread, with this essential item being unavailable in various areas of the valley.
Locals have expressed frustration, as many shops are unable to stock the smaller bread at affordable rates.
Zubair Ahmed, a resident of Srinagar said, “Roti is an essential part of our daily diet. The hike in prices has made it difficult for many families to access it regularly. The government needs to step in and help resolve this issue,” he said.
Naveen, another local, echoed similar concerns adding, “If the price of roti continues to rise, it will become impossible for many people to afford it. This is a basic food item, and it should be accessible to everyone,” he said.
Notably, as earlier reported by local news agencies, the price increase, according to the All Jammu Kashmir Kashmiri Bread Makers and Local Bakers Union, was introduced after extensive discussions with authorities. “The union clarified that the decision had been communicated to the Food, Civil Supplies, and Consumer Affairs (FCS&CA) department, and the new prices were authorized under SRO 300, a government regulation,” they reported.
It is worth mentioning that, despite the union’s defense of the price hike, residents are still struggling to find roti at local shops.
As the smaller version of the Rs: 5 bread shortage continues, locals are urging the government to intervene and ensure that this vital food item remains accessible to everyone, especially those who are most vulnerable to price hikes.
It may be noted that JKNS tried multiple times to connect with the Food, Civil Supplies, and Consumer Affairs (FCS&CA) for their comments, but despite repeated attempts, no answer was received. —(JKNS)
