Unseasonal rainfall leading to crop failure and skyrocketing prices of fuel have led to the overpricing of vegetables in Mumbai and other metro cities. People are very upset with the price hike as it has disrupted their budgets.
The hike in food prices is creating a rift between the market and people. The increasing cost of oil and gas has only added distress to Indian farmers’ and consumers’ life.
As per media reports, vegetables costing Rs. 70-80 per kg have gone up to Rs. 120-140 per kg and have become the new retail average price for maximum garden vegetables.
Matunga is reported to be one of the costliest retail markets in Mumbai. On Tuesday, tomatoes were marketed at the price between Rs. 60 to Rs. 80 per kg in Ghatkopar, Andheri, Khar, Matunga and Borivli which were earlier sold for Rs. 40-50 per kg.
The same is the issue with other vegetables. Parwal (pointed gourd) now costs Rs 120 per kg, spinach which was previously sold for Rs 10-15 is now priced at Rs 50–60 per bunch. Cluster beans, or gawar phali, are available for Rs 40 for a quarter or kg or Rs 160 for a kg. According to sources, broccoli costs Rs. 500 per kg at wholesale market these days.
Cauliflower, which was earlier sold for Rs. 16-18 per kg is now being sold at Rs. 60 per kg in the wholesale market. Traders were earlier buying one lemon for around 50 paise- Rs. 1, are now vending out for more than Rs. 4-5 per fruit.
According to reports, many cultivators in India have experienced huge crop losses. Experts believe that food prices, which are now the highest in more than two years, may continue to rise further. The bad crop and the high costs will leave a negative impact on millions of rural people in the country.
In addition to cereals, prices for vegetables, milk, legumes and edible oils—which together make up more than 25% of the consumer price index are also growing and are anticipated to stay high for some time.
