Potato prices rise again! Why Odisha is so vulnerable

Odisha is once again facing a daunting potato crisis, with prices escalating sharply, due to the transportation policies of neighbouring West Bengal and Uttar Pradesh governments. Potatoes imported from West Bengal and Uttar Pradesh now cost between Rs 40 and Rs 45 per kilogram as transportation expenses have surged, sources said on Tuesday.

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Food Supplies Minister Krushna Chandra Patra openly criticised the policies of the previous government in Odisha, suggesting that the BJD-led government failed in several agricultural missions and in effectively stabilising the market.

The Minister argued that ‘failed missions’ of previous government over the past 24 years have exacerbated the potato crisis. Over the last six months, potato prices have climbed steadily from Rs 20 to nearly Rs 50 per kilogram, prompting widespread discontent among consumers.

Just two days ago, potatoes were priced at Rs 40 per kilogram and increased to Rs 45 as of today, and they are expected to rise further with little sign of relief.

In major cities such as Cuttack and Bhubaneswar, consumers are feeling the pinch as prices rise dramatically. Where three kilograms of potatoes could previously be purchased for Rs 100, shoppers now struggle to afford even 2.5 kilograms at the same price.

This price increase is attributed to reports of intentional disruptions at the West Bengal border, where truckloads of potatoes are allegedly detained, leading to skyrocketing transportation costs. The potato crisis has further inflated prices.

Uttar Pradesh, a key potato-producing region, also contributes to Odisha's supply. However, escalating transport costs have driven up market prices in Odisha. Four days ago, a 40 kg sack of potatoes was priced at Rs 800, but this has now surged to between Rs 1,200 and Rs 1,600, thereby pinching the pockets of consumers.

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Business associations place the blame squarely on the government, claiming that corporate interests are controlling supply chains and manipulating market conditions, resulting in shortages and inflated prices.

“The retail traders are asking Rs 120-Rs 130 for three kilograms of potato but accepting Rs 110 after a bargain. Newly harvested potatoes also cost the same, which supposedly should have been priced low,” a resident from Cuttack expressed.