Prices of almost all vegetables have increased at Boro Bazar in Cox’s Bazar city, putting low- and middle-income consumers under additional financial pressure.
Vendors attributed the rise to persistent rain, waterlogging and disruptions to the supply of vegetables from different areas.
A visit to Boro Bazar revealed that most vegetables were selling at higher prices than before. Eggplant was selling for Tk80–100 a kilogram, pointed gourd for Tk70–80, bitter gourd for Tk100–120, okra for Tk70–80, cucumber for Tk80–100, yardlong beans for Tk100–120, green papaya for Tk50–60 and green chillies for Tk180–220.
Potatoes were selling for Tk35–40 a kilogram, onions for Tk60–70 and tomatoes for Tk100–120.
Prices varied slightly from shop to shop depending on the quality and availability of the vegetables.
A consumer at the market said traders were attributing the price hike to the rain.
“But our income has not increased. Previously, we could buy several types of vegetables with the same amount of money. Now we are getting much less for the same amount,” the consumer said.
Sabuza Ali, a vegetable vendor at Boro Bazar, said supplies from many areas had declined due to the rain.
“It is also difficult to harvest vegetables from the fields. As supplies have fallen, wholesale prices have increased. We are selling them accordingly,” he said.
Another vendor, Aktar Hossain, said prolonged rain could damage vegetables and create transportation problems.
“As a result, the supply of high-quality vegetables in the market falls. If the rain subsides, supplies may increase, and prices could come down somewhat,” he said.
According to consumers and traders, the prices of green chillies, eggplant, bitter gourd, yardlong beans, and tomatoes have changed more in recent days.
The rising prices are making it increasingly difficult for ordinary people to manage their daily household expenses.
By Mohammad Morshed
Photo: Mohammad Morshed
