According to recent reports, Pakistan’s economy is facing a double whammy as wages remain low while inflation continues to rise. This combination is making it increasingly difficult for the citizens of Pakistan to make ends meet.
Despite the government’s promises to increase wages, many workers are still earning less than what is needed to support themselves and their families. In fact, the current minimum wage in Pakistan is only around Rs20,000 ($138) per month, which is not enough to cover the basic cost of living. This has led to many citizens struggling to pay for necessities such as food, housing, and healthcare.
At the same time, inflation rates have been increasing steadily in Pakistan, with prices for goods and services rising at a rapid pace. In February 2023, the inflation rate hit a seven-year high of 17.3%, making it even more difficult for citizens to afford basic necessities. Prices for food items such as vegetables, fruits, and meat have increased significantly, putting a strain on households.
Inflation Rates in Pakistan (Jan 2022 – Feb 2023)
| Month | Inflation Rate |
|---|---|
| Jan 2022 | 5.7% |
| Feb 2022 | 6.8% |
| Mar 2022 | 7.5% |
| Apr 2022 | 8.2% |
| May 2022 | 9.1% |
| Jun 2022 | 10.3% |
| Jul 2022 | 11.5% |
| Aug 2022 | 13.2% |
| Sep 2022 | 14.8% |
| Oct 2022 | 15.7% |
| Nov 2022 | 16.2% |
| Dec 2022 | 16.8% |
| Jan 2023 | 17.1% |
| Feb 2023 | 17.3% |
The situation is particularly dire for low-income families, who are disproportionately affected by rising inflation and low wages. Many are forced to cut back on essential items such as food and medicine, or take on additional jobs just to make ends meet.
The government has promised to take action to address these issues, but it remains to be seen whether their efforts will be sufficient. In the meantime, citizens of Pakistan continue to face significant challenges in their daily lives.
It is crucial for the government to take immediate action to address the issue of low wages and rising inflation in Pakistan. The citizens of Pakistan deserve a better quality of life and should not have to struggle to make ends meet. It is imperative that the government takes steps to increase wages, control inflation, and provide essential services to all citizens.
