Bhubaneswar: Onion prices that were hovering around Rs 20 per kg just a couple of months back, have now soared to eye-watering heights of Rs 80 at several places. While the government claims that the prices would ease soon, onion traders in Odisha feel that they will further rise and may even cross Rs 100 a kg in a few days.
The price rise is affecting the consumers a lot. "Onion prices are hurting us. Rising prices are putting an extra burden on our budget," said a consumer from Balasore district.
According to sources, a drop in supply of onion from Nasik and neighbouring Andhra Pradesh has resulted in higher prices. Once the new crops reach the market, there won't be any shortage and prices will automatically reduce, said a Balasore-based wholesaler, Budhia Das.
"This is a countrywide phenomenon. We are undertaking enforcement drives to control abnormal spikes in prices. Besides, through fair price shops, we are trying to control the situation," said Odisha Food and Supplies Minister, Ranendra Swain.