The Flour Mills Association in Punjab, including Lahore, has entered the third day of its strike, causing a severe shortage of flour in the market. This disruption arises from unresolved disputes between the government and mill owners regarding the withholding tax, which directly impacts consumers.
In Lahore, the crisis is worsening; consumers often face rejection from multiple shops before finding any available flour. This shortage is causing considerable inconvenience among the residents, who recall the government’s promises during the elections and now feel neglected in their time of need.
On July 10, the association stopped processing wheat; since July 11, they have also halted flour supply. The ongoing negotiations between the government and the association have yet to yield results, increasing difficulties for the public.
The Punjab flour mill strike has triggered concerns of a broader crisis affecting flour and semolina, prompting the United Bread & Roti Association to contemplate shutting down their operations. Flour mill owners are distressed, and the United Bread & Roti Association has convened an emergency meeting to address the challenges arising from the strike.
The association has expressed that continuing this situation might force them to close down ovens, indicating the severity of the impact on daily operations and the wider community.
