Bolangir: Tomato growers in Bolangir district are finding themselves in dire straits after being forced to sell their agricultural produce at throwaway prices of Rs 2-3 per kg.
Things have come to such a pass that some farmers are even leaving their produce in the field without harvesting which they feel will be a costly affair than the sales proceeds.
Many blame shortage of cold storages and lack of transport facilities for such a situation.
“I have spent Rs 5,000 - Rs10,000 for cultivating tomatoes. But it is useless as traders are purchasing at Rs 2-3/kg,” said Baishakhu Pandey, a tomato farmer of Khaliapali village.
Another farmer Rana Pandey said, “I have spent Rs 5 per kg. However, I am selling them at Rs 2-3/kg. Instead of such distress sale, I would let them rot in the field.”
The tomato distress sale has been reported from Agalpur, Loisingha and Puintala block of the district as well.
On the other hand, the Bolangir district administration said it would take appropriate steps to stop farmers from disposing of tomatoes at throwaway prices.
“We will create awareness among growers on how to preserve tomatoes by manufacturing jam and jelly and get appropriate value,” said Harekrushna Panda, Additional Agriculture Officer, Bolangir.