Cyclone Dana: Odisha government launches toll-free number to alert black-marketing, hoarding

Amidst the hike in prices of vegetables and other essential commodities due to the impending severe cyclonic storm ‘Dana,’ the Odisha government has issued a dedicated toll-free number to accept complaints against traders charging high prices.

The Food Supplies and Consumer Welfare (FS&CW) Department issued a toll-free number to lodge complaints. Consumers who come across unscrupulous traders charging higher than the market price can lodge complaints by dialing 0674-2396227.

The FS&CW Department urged people to lodge their complaints against traders who were taking advantage of the situation. The Department also clearly stated that black-marketing and hoarding of onions and potatoes is strictly prohibited and shall draw legal action and fines.

Cyclone Dana: Emergency helpline numbers for Odisha

Railway Helpline Numbers for Cyclone Dana

The Department warned of strict action against the traders ignoring government orders and causing artificial shortages in the market.

Meanwhile, several parts of Odisha witnessed panic buying with the prices of vegetables and essential commodities skyrocketing due to the impending cyclone. As per reports, onion and potato prices skyrocketed in Cuttack and Bhubaneswar.

Potatoes are reportedly being sold at Rs 40-50/kg while onions are being sold at Rs 60-70/kg. 

Meanwhile, BMC has also made its control room functional and launched toll-free number 1929. Moreover, the city police also firmed up their cyclone preparedness. At least 20 motorcycles, 5 excavators, 10 tractors, 5 trolleys and ambulances have been deployed for rescue operations.