Vegetable prices in Odisha skyrocket

Bhubaneswar: Soaring prices of vegetables across Odisha are burning holes in household budgets. While onions are being sold at Rs 60 per kilogram in Cuttack’s Chhatra Bazaar, consumers have to spend Rs 65-70 in retail markets of Twin City.

Situation is no different in Balasore and Berhampur where onion prices have soared significantly following which many consumers have cut down their consumption.

“While the older varieties of onions are priced at Rs 60 per kilo, the newer varieties are being sold at Rs 55 per kilo. As mandis have opened again, a reduction in price is expected,” said Kalandi, a trader.

Speaking on the rising prices, Food & Civil Supplies Minister Ranendra Pratap Swain said that rain in Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra & Karnataka has affected supply of onion to Odisha.

“The price may further increase by Rs 6-10 per kg. State govt will soon take a decision regarding supply of onion at subsidised rates,” said Swain.

Similarly, prices of other vegetables like carrots, pointed gourds have touched Rs 100 per kilo and beans are being sold at Rs 80 per kilo.

Even prices of pulses and edible oil have increased significantly across the state.

Here’s a look at the prices in different cities:

In Cuttack’s Malgodown, rate of pulses has risen by Rs 10 to Rs 40 per kilo.

On the other hand, retailers’ association has said that due to lower margins, rates may have increased.

“After reopening of the shops on Monday, the prices of vegetables and pulses increased significantly. Low profit could be the reason behind such high rates,” said President of Malgodown Retailers’ Association, Binod Chandra Sahoo.

A consumer said that due to the possibility of a cyclone, the rates are soaring.