TURA, May 11: Tura has etched its name as possibly the priciest towns for snacks after the Sweets and Confectionaries Association raised prices of snacks to almost double the rates earlier.
Consider this, the rate of one samosa, which could be savoured for Rs 10 just a few days ago, has now been raised to Rs 20. Similar has been the case for parathas, which now sell for Rs 30, kachoris for Rs 20, small-size rasgullas at Rs 20 from its previous price of Rs 10.
The new rates, which are implemented at all sweet and confectionary shops, have now raised the eyebrows of the public at large.
What is even more interesting is that despite the unlooked-for price hike, the quantity of the products has remained the same. Some places in the town of Tura, however, were still sticking with the old rates.
The Association in question passed the rates, which has led to many questioning how manipulations were pushing prices far from the reach of the commoners.
“It seems like we live in Switzerland or some foreign locales where prices are always steep. The common man cannot afford these rates. Do people in Tura have such amounts of disposable incomes that they can afford a samosa at this price? For another Rs 20, I can get a vegetable rice platter,” said one resident, questioning the motive behind the price rise.
Meanwhile, upon being informed on the matter, West Garo Hills Deputy Commissioner, Ram Singh, has assured to look into the matter and call for a review.
One sweet shop owner, who has a chain of such shops, justified the price hike by pinning the blame on the escalating prices of goods.
“The rate of everything has increased. We now have to procure gas at Rs 2,750, oil at Rs 200. Prices of other goods and vegetables have also increased. Labour charges have gone up to almost double. We have been running our shops at losses and there was no other way,” said the shop owner on the condition of anonymity.
His reasoning, however, seems to have overrun costs by a huge margin. While an increase of Rs 1-2 could have been sustained, the fact that prices of things have been doubled beggars belief.
“How did they come to this price? In what world will people believe that the cost of making a samosa is Rs 20? Some people have become too greedy for their own benefit and don’t mind crushing others until they can make a killing through these manipulative prices,” said another resident.
Association president, Wilver D Marak, has, meanwhile, stressed on the need for a review of the price hike.
“There needs to be a review if this is impacting people this badly. Let’s see how this can be worked out for the benefit of all,” said Marak.
