Shillong, July 4: Tomatoes, potatoes, and onions are essential ingredients in most Indian meals, but the recent surge in their prices has disrupted the monthly budgets of many households.
Tomato prices have seen a staggering increase, soaring from Rs 15 per kg in the first week of May to an astonishing Rs 120-150 per kg in various regions across the country, according to recent reports.
Wholesalers report that vegetable prices have doubled within a week, leading to a 40% reduction in sales. This price hike extends to other vegetables as well, with coriander priced at Rs 300 per kg, cauliflower at Rs 160 per kg, and ginger at Rs 400 per kg.
Even online vegetable selling apps have witnessed spiking rates, with tomatoes selling at Rs 150 per kg and bottle gourd at Rs 61 for 400g-600g on Blinkit.
The surge in tomato prices has been attributed to heavy rainfall, which has disrupted the supply chain. The abundant rainfall has adversely affected tomato cultivation, transportation, and overall availability, resulting in scarcity and subsequent price increases in retail markets.
Customers are feeling the strain of these soaring prices, forcing many to reduce their vegetable purchases in an attempt to manage their budgets effectively. The limited supply from states like Haryana and Uttar Pradesh has contributed to the sharp increase in tomato prices in the national capital, according to wholesalers.
Vegetable vendors and sellers are hopeful that prices will come down soon as the limited tomato stock in the mandis (wholesale markets) and reduced sales prompt adjustments in the market. However, until prices stabilize, many households will continue to face challenges in managing their monthly budgets effectively.