Jhenaidah: Prices of seasonal vegetables in rural markets across the district have remained largely stable, offering some relief to buyers. However, consumers in town markets are facing slightly higher prices, mainly due to recent rainfall and supply disruptions.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, market visits and trader feedback indicate that vegetable prices in marginal rural markets are generally within normal range, despite a minor increase of Taka 5 to 7 per kilogram for some items over the past week. In contrast, urban markets, including those in district and upazila sadar areas, have seen increases of Taka 5 to Taka 15 per kilogram for various vegetables such as green chilli, parbol, brinjal, and gourd.
In rural wholesale and local markets, current prices show relative stability. Patal is selling at Taka 35-40 per kg, brinjal at Taka 45-50, green chilli at Taka 45-50, local onions at Taka 30-32, hybrid onions at Taka 25-28, and sweet pumpkin at Taka 30-35. Leafy vegetables like puishak and data shak are being sold at Taka 15-20 per kg, while bitter gourd (corolla) and jhinga range between Taka 30 and Taka 45 per kg. Tomatoes are priced at Taka 50-55 per kg.
Traders attribute the price rise in urban markets to reduced supply caused by rainfall. Sabuj Hossain, a vegetable retailer at Holidhani Bazar, said that farmers are facing difficulties harvesting crops due to sudden rains, leading to lower supply in city warehouses. As a result, prices in urban areas are Taka 15 to 20 higher per kilogram compared to rural markets.
Despite the increase, traders believe prices remain within consumers’ purchasing capacity. Shahadat Ali, another trader, said that vegetable prices typically rise during May-June due to seasonal rainfall but are likely to decline again soon.
Consumers also acknowledged the price difference between rural and urban markets. Anjuman Ara, a buyer, said vegetables are significantly cheaper in village markets and still affordable overall, though further increases could cause hardship.
Meanwhile, the prices of protein sources such as fish, chicken, and meat have surged across the district, putting pressure on lower and middle-income households. Fish prices have also risen due to supply shortages. Traders say reduced local fish supply and higher transportation costs are driving the increase.
Consumers report growing difficulty in affording protein-rich foods. Some have turned to alternatives like pulses and eggs, the latter remaining stable in price.
Assistant Director of the District Consumer Rights Protection Department, Nishat Meher said the slight rise in vegetable prices is due to rainfall but remains tolerable. He added that authorities are actively monitoring markets and will take action if meat prices exceed government-fixed rates.
Officials expect prices, especially for fish and vegetables, to stabilize in the coming days as supply conditions improve.