Daijiworld Media Network- Panaji

Panaji, Aug 17: With the onset of the festive season and heavy monsoon rains, vegetable prices in Goa have witnessed a sharp rise over the past two weeks. The demand during the Hindu holy month of Shravan and the upcoming Ganesh Chaturthi has further contributed to the spike.

Tomatoes, which were priced at Rs 40 per kg earlier this month, are now sold at Rs 50. Onion and potato prices have climbed from Rs 30 to Rs 40 per kg. Vendors predict further hikes as the festival draws closer.

“Tomatoes were Rs 80 last month, dropped to Rs 40 two weeks ago, and now are at Rs 50. Prices change based on quality and demand,” said Burhanuddin Mulia, a vendor at the Panaji municipal market.

Goa depends largely on supplies from Belagavi. However, higher cultivation costs and transportation issues during the rains have pushed up prices of locally grown produce as well. For instance, three small ridged gourds or bitter gourds are now sold at Rs 100.

Vendors say customers are unhappy with both prices and quality. “With the hike, the vegetables don’t justify the cost,” said Mohammad Haris, another Panaji vendor. Leafy greens like methi, radish, and coriander appear to be sold at the same rates, but their bunch sizes have been reduced.

The state horticulture corporation has assured that it is selling vegetables at subsidised prices, though the number of stalls may not be enough to meet festive demand.

Consumers, meanwhile, expressed concern over shrinking household budgets. “Even if prices drop slightly, we end up paying more for less,” said Satyender Chaudhary, a Mala resident.