Price hike hits common items including roti, naan, paratha, and tea

By the close of 2025, the cost of basic food items such as whole wheat roti, white flour roti, naan, paratha, and even a cup of tea had surged sharply at tandoors, roadside carts, and small hotels in the twin cities—places traditionally relied upon by low-income groups for affordable meals.

Labourers who previously managed a simple meal of roti and tea for Rs100 to Rs130 at commercial areas, transport points, workshops, and major markets are now finding it increasingly difficult to meet their daily food needs. Last year, the price of red bran–mixed flour roti was raised from Rs14 to Rs15, while its weight was reduced by 30 per cent. As a result, the roti became noticeably thinner, forcing workers who once ate one roti to consume two just to feel full. Meanwhile, the price of white flour and yeast roti has climbed from Rs20 to Rs30, while naan has risen from Rs25 to Rs35. Tandoori paratha and oiled naan prices have increased from Rs40 to Rs60, and fried tawa paratha has seen a similar jump from Rs40 to Rs60. Even a cup of tea, which previously cost Rs70, is now being sold for Rs100, further adding to the burden on daily wage earners