Odisha hit by surge in vegetable prices; households struggle with costs

A sudden surge in vegetable prices has left consumers across Odisha including in Bhubaneswar worried, with household budgets taking a hit. However, market sources said that over the past two days, prices have shown a slight decline.

According to sources, vegetable prices at Unit-1 market in the capital city have remained on the higher side. Brinjal is currently selling for Rs 40 to Rs 60 per kg, ridge gourd at Rs 50, tomato at Rs 40, pointed gourd at Rs 40, cauliflower at Rs 30–40 per piece, and cabbage at Rs 30 per kg.

Sources further added that country beans are priced at Rs 50, French beans at Rs 70, capsicum at Rs 60, and pumpkin between Rs 12 and Rs 15 per kg.

Traders attributed the sudden price rise to late winter and intermittent rainfall, which affected local vegetable production. This forced vendors to depend on supplies from other states, pushing rates higher.

With local production now picking up, traders expect the situation to normalise within six to seven days. Consumers remain hopeful for relief as vegetable availability improves and prices stabilise.

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“Vegetable farming has reduced significantly in Odisha. So, we are dependent on other states. Intermittent rainfall has also damaged the produce. Tomato was priced at Rs 80 per kg, now it is sold at Rs 50 per kg,” a trader said.