The Rising Cost of an Ordinary Life

Dear Sir,
The rising cost of essential commodities is making everyday life increasingly difficult for ordinary families. Shopping for necessities has become a calculation of what can be bought and what must be left behind. Sugar, flour, eggs, chicken and fish remain costly, with loose sugar reaching Tk115-120 per kilogram, packaged sugar Tk120-125, flour Tk80, eggs Tk150-160 per dozen, and broiler chicken Tk180-200 per kilogram. Fish prices also remain high.

Although overall inflation fell to 8.32 per cent in July and food inflation to 7.16 per cent, prices have not returned to previous levels. Higher production and transport costs, energy shortages, import expenses and supply disruptions are adding to the pressure. Artificial shortages, hoarding and excessive intermediaries can worsen the situation.

The authorities must strengthen market monitoring, prevent hoarding and ensure fair competition. At the same time, Bangladesh needs stronger domestic production, better storage and distribution, reliable energy supplies and an efficient supply chain.

Maymuna
Student, Department of Zoology
Eden Mohila College