Prices of flowers, floral petals, and grave coverings surge in Rawalpindi, adding financial strain on families visiting cemeteries during Eid, with grave diggers and caretakers increasing charges for cleaning and re-plastering graves.
The traditional practice of visiting graveyards during Eid has become a costly affair for families in Rawalpindi, as prices of essential items such as flowers, floral petals, and grave coverings have surged sharply across open markets. Despite the financial strain caused by inflation, residents are continuing to purchase these items as part of their preparations to visit cemeteries and pay their respects to their departed loved ones.
Across the city's 55 graveyards, temporary stalls and handcarts have been set up outside each cemetery, selling flowers and ceremonial items to meet the increased demand during Eid. Shopkeepers have also stocked additional supplies in anticipation of the surge in demand. However, the prices of these items have risen significantly, with flower petals being sold at around Rs500 per kilogramme, and decorative floral sheets used for graves costing approximately Rs1,400 each.
The prices of other essential items such as rose water and incense sticks have also increased, with bottles of rose water retailing at Rs200, and packets of incense sticks being sold for nearly Rs200. Furthermore, grave diggers and caretakers have increased their charges for cleaning graves and re-plastering earthen graves with fresh soil, with labour costs now reaching around Rs500 per grave. This has added to the financial burden on families who are already struggling to cope with the rising cost of living.
Residents have also expressed concern over the deteriorating condition of graveyards across the city, with many cemeteries not having undergone proper cleaning for a prolonged period. As a result, wild overgrown bushes, cannabis plants, and dense vegetation have spread extensively throughout several graveyards, severely obstructing visibility and access. This has made it difficult for families to locate and visit the graves of their loved ones, adding to their distress and frustration.
The situation has highlighted the need for the authorities to take immediate action to address the issues facing the city's graveyards, including the lack of maintenance and the surge in prices of essential items. By doing so, they can help to ensure that families are able to visit their loved ones in a dignified and respectful manner, without being burdened by excessive costs and logistical challenges.
