People stock up on food

People across Pakistan are stocking up on essential items in anticipation of the political crisis in the country taking a turn for the worse.

In Lahore, a large banner, offering facilities to freeze home-cooked food and store it for months, or even years, flutters across a busy street.

Political unrest as a result of growing conflict between the ruling party and the opposition has led to violence over 10 days, with vehicles set alight, tyres burnt and street protests.

Inflation accelerated for the first time in four months in February, raising concern the central bank may not lower interest rates from the highest in more than a decade.

Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani promised “things will be back to normal soon” but few are convinced.