Prices of essentials jump in Khulna kitchen markets due to supply shortage, rains

Prices of daily essentials have increased unusually in Khulna kitchen markets due to a supply shortage and incessant rain, leaving low- and middle-income people struggling.

Visiting different city markets yesterday (4 October), it was found that vegetables are not available for less than Tk60 per kilogramme, while the price of green chilli has jumped by Tk40 per kilogramme in just a few days.

Green chilli is being sold at Tk280–360 per kg compared to Tk200–220 a week ago.

Traders blamed this week's heavy rainfall for damaging crops, leading to supply shortages.

Prices of almost all vegetables, including eggplant, bitter gourd, beans, okra, and early winter crops such as cauliflower and cabbage, have seen a sharp rise.

A piece of cauliflower or cabbage now sells for Tk80–100, up from Tk60–70 earlier. Beans are being sold at Tk240 per kg, Tk70–80 higher than last week.

Besides, rice prices have increased by Tk3–4 per kg over the past month, and finer quality miniket is selling at Tk75 per kg and basmati at Tk90.

Loose soybean oil now costs Tk195 per litre while bottled oil is Tk183 per litre.

Coarse lentils are selling at Tk100 per kg and finer ones at Tk150.

"There are plenty of vegetables in the market, yet prices are rising every day. Authorities must intervene," said Safiqul Islam, a shopper at KCC Shondha Bazar.

Consumers also demanded mobile court drives against syndicates accused of manipulating the market.

Mohammad Hafizur Rahman, a college teacher visiting Rupsha KCC Market, said, "prices of nearly all essentials, including lentils, oil, vegetables have increased and suggested the need for mobile courts to monitor and regulate the market."

Traders said prices may ease if the weather improves and supply increases.