Vegetable and basic commodity prices are skyrocketing, putting a strain on Gujarat’s Ahmedabad household budgets. Staples like pulses and edible oils have also experienced significant price increases as a result of price hikes, which have doubled and, in some cases, even tripled. The entire cost of living for people has increased dramatically as a consequence of this spike.
While tomatoes are now sold for Rs 132 per kg, the cost of other vegetables, such as cluster beans (Rs 200/kg), French beans (Rs 365/kg), bottle gourd (Rs 110/kg), pointed gourd (Rs 180/kg), chillies (Rs 270/kg), garlic (Rs 375/kg), cauliflower (Rs 150/kg), brinjal (Rs 140/kg), and okra (Rs 130/kg), has also doubled as a result of a shortage.
In recent months, there has been a sharp increase in the cost of groceries, oils, and pulses, which has left the average person’s wallet hurting. Vegetable shortages and increased reliance on imports from neighbouring states are the main causes of the delays.
APMC’s Response
In response to this situation, Sanjay Patel from Ahmedabad’s Agriculture Market Produce Committee (APMC) said: “We are relying heavily on supplies from Maharashtra and southern states. Erratic weather, including heavy rainfall and heatwaves, has decimated crops, leading to shortages and higher prices.”
The city’s market is only getting around 12,500 quintals of vegetables per day, a 26% decrease from the standard 17,000 quintals that arrive at the APMC every day. The issue is made worse by delays in transportation.
“Heavy rains and bad roads in Gujarat and neighbouring states have slowed truck deliveries, compounding supply issues,” said a local transporter.
Wholesalers cite recent harsh weather, such as a strong heatwave followed by unseasonal rainfall in major producing states, for the price increases. Deepchand Bindrani, a wholesale trader at APMC Ahmedabad, said, “For tomatoes, Gujarat and much of India depend heavily on Karnataka. Local supplies won’t suffice for another month and a half, keeping prices elevated.”
Locals Struggle
Families are struggling with rising prices for basic necessities, affecting both home cooking and dining out. Dharti Parikh, a resident of Vejalpur, expressed concern by saying, “The rising costs are hitting our household budget hard. Even the farmers are not profiting from the situation.”
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