Hardware Prices Rise in Gujranwala Market, Citizens Worried
Gujranwala: July 2025
The people of Gujranwala are facing serious trouble as the prices of hardware items in the city’s famous hardware market have increased sharply. From screws and locks to plumbing tools and electric fittings, almost every item has become more expensive in just the past few weeks.
Gujranwala, which is known for its metal and hardware manufacturing industry, is now seeing a wave of inflation that is directly affecting both shopkeepers and customers. Daily wage workers, contractors, small builders, and homeowners are especially upset with this sudden price hike.
What’s Happening in the Hardware Market?
Local shopkeepers in Gujranwala’s main hardware market report that the prices of basic items like door handles, locks, nails, pipes, electric wires, and tools have gone up by 20% to 35%. For example:
- A door lock that previously cost Rs. 600 is now being sold for Rs. 800.
- A pack of electric switches now costs Rs. 300 instead of Rs. 220.
- Steel pipes and plumbing items have also seen a steep rise in price.
Mr. Rauf Ahmed, who owns a hardware shop in Gujranwala’s Sialvi Market, said:
“We have no choice but to raise prices. Prices of basic materials and delivery services have significantly increased. Even manufacturers are charging us more.”
Why Are Prices Increasing? — Main Reasons
1. Rise in Raw Material Prices
One of the biggest reasons for this price hike is the rising cost of raw materials such as iron, steel, brass, and copper. Due to global supply chain issues and currency depreciation, importing raw materials has become expensive. Even local foundries are affected.
2. Fuel and Transport Costs
Another major reason is the increase in petrol and diesel prices. Transporting goods from factories to shops now costs more, and those extra costs are being passed on to customers.
3. High Electricity Tariffs
Gujranwala’s hardware manufacturers rely heavily on electricity. With recent increases in electricity bills, many factories have raised their rates to survive, resulting in higher product costs.
4. Currency Devaluation
Due to the weakening of the Pakistani rupee against the US dollar, imported hardware parts and components have become costly, and even locally made products are affected due to imported raw materials.
Impact on Local People
The rise in prices is hurting small contractors, plumbers, electricians, and home renovators the most. These people work on tight budgets and now struggle to buy tools and materials.
Mr. Farooq, a small contractor, shared his concern:
“My clients ask me for low-cost renovations, but now I can’t even buy basic hardware at old prices. This is affecting my income badly.”
Many people who were planning to build or repair their homes have delayed their projects due to higher costs. Plumbers and electricians are also demanding higher wages, which is creating a chain reaction of inflation in small construction projects.
Customers Feel the Pressure
Even general customers visiting the market to buy items for home repairs are shocked. Some have left without buying anything due to high rates.
Mrs. Sabiha said:
“I came to buy a new door lock and a few handles, but everything was so expensive.I’m going to hold off on buying until the prices drop.”
What Do Manufacturers Say?
Local hardware manufacturers claim they are under pressure too. Mr. Usman Qureshi, owner of a metal workshop, said:
“The government must control electricity and fuel prices. We are doing our best to survive, but it’s becoming difficult.”
Some small factories have even reduced production, fearing that they will not be able to sell their goods at competitive prices.
What Can Be Done?
Economists believe the government must intervene by:
- Reducing fuel and electricity tariffs for small manufacturers.
- Providing low-interest loans to hardware businesses.
- Controlling unnecessary imports to protect the local industry.
- Monitoring hoarding and overpricing in markets.
They also suggest setting up a price control committee in cities like Gujranwala to ensure fair prices for hardware items.
Voices of the Market
Many traders are requesting the government to offer relief. They argue that without support, both businesses and buyers will continue to suffer.
Mr. Shafqat Ali, a wholesaler in the market, added:
“The government gives relief to farmers and textile mills. Why not to hardware workers and traders? We’re not only helping with building work but also providing food to families in need.”
Conclusion
The hardware market in Gujranwala is facing tough times. The rising prices are not just affecting businesses but also hurting the daily lives of ordinary citizens. As inflation continues to grow, immediate action is needed to stabilize the situation. Until then, people in Gujranwala will continue to worry every time they step into a hardware store.
