Cox’s Bazar’s busy Boro Bazar was abuzz with shoppers and vendors from early Friday morning, as the weekly holiday brought more customers to the market.
Some were doing their weekly family shopping, while others bought vegetables and daily essentials.
Despite the crowds, however, high vegetable prices continued to strain household budgets.
Most vegetables at Boro Bazar are currently selling for Tk 70 to Tk 140 a kilogram. Supply shortages and high market prices are forcing consumers to spend more on essential vegetables.
Tomatoes and carrots sell for Tk 120–140 a kilogram, while round and long eggplant varieties cost Tk 100–140. Yardlong beans and green beans sell for Tk 100–200 a kilogram.
Bitter gourds, pointed gourds, and okra sell for Tk 60–80 a kilogram, while cucumbers cost Tk 80–100.
Green chilies are among the most expensive items, selling for Tk 160–200 a kilogram. Papayas and potatoes are relatively cheaper, at Tk 30–40 a kilogram. Local onions are selling for Tk 50–60 a kilogram.
Shopper Faisal said buying almost any kind of vegetable has become more expensive, with high prices for tomatoes, carrots, eggplants, and green chilies putting additional pressure on family budgets.
“Many people are reducing the quantities they buy to keep their spending within budget. Others are comparing prices and choosing relatively cheaper vegetables,” he said.
Vendor Alamgir attributed the high prices to increased transport expenses and higher wholesale purchase prices.
He noted that reduced supplies or price hikes at wholesale markets quickly reflected in retail prices.
Prices could fall if supplies to the market remain adequate, he added.
Consumers hope authorities will ensure adequate supplies of essential vegetables and strengthen regular market monitoring to bring prices within reach and ease pressure on low-income households.
Although Boro Bazar remained bustling with shoppers and vendors on Friday, high vegetable prices continued to leave consumers struggling.
They now hope for increased supplies, lower prices, and some relief for their household budgets.
Cox’s Bazar Life Report
Photo: Mohammad Morshed
