Frustrated over prolonged road closures, residents of Parachinar staged a protest, setting up a sit-in outside the local press club.

The blockade has led to severe shortages of essential goods and an uncontrolled surge in prices.

Protesters expressed their outrage, stating that despite the arrival of Ramazan, they continue to face a dire scarcity of food and necessities.

They demanded the immediate reopening of roads that have remained closed for over five months, criticising the government’s inaction.

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According to local traders, supply disruptions have made essential commodities almost unavailable.

The prices of daily necessities have skyrocketed, with ladyfinger and peas selling at Rs850 per kg, tomatoes at Rs500 per kg, onions at Rs250 per kg, garlic at Rs1,600 per kg, and potatoes at Rs170 per kg.

Fruits, too, have become unaffordable, with oranges priced between Rs800 to Rs1,000 per dozen and guavas at Rs600 per kg.

The fuel crisis has also worsened, with petrol and diesel being sold in the black market for Rs1,000 to Rs1,200 per litre.

Severe electricity shortages have further added to the misery, affecting water supply in the region.

The Tall-Parachinar highway, a crucial lifeline for the area, has remained closed for over five months, leaving residents struggling for survival.

The situation has become so dire that many are on the brink of starvation.