Daijiworld Media Network - Panaji
Panaji, May 28: A sharp spike in vegetable prices across Panaji’s markets is straining household budgets as supply chains continue to reel from the effects of persistent rainfall over the past two weeks.
The inclement weather has not only led to crop losses but also severely impacted transportation, triggering a surge in the prices of daily-use perishables. Housewives and household managers are feeling the pinch as they struggle to manage their kitchens on inflated budgets.
Since Monday, retail vegetable prices have steadily climbed. Tomatoes are now retailing at Rs 45 per kilo— Rs 10 more than last week—while potatoes have jumped to Rs 50 per kilo. Although onions remain stable at Rs 40 per kilo, other essentials are not as forgiving.
A bunch of coriander, for instance, has risen from Rs 30 to Rs 40. Green leafy vegetables such as spinach and local 'tambdi bhaji' are being sold at R 20 a bunch, up from their usual rates.
More drastic hikes are seen in staples like carrots, beetroots, and lady fingers (okra), now priced at Rs 80 per kilo. Cucumbers have climbed to Rs 60 per kilo, while green chillies have shot up dramatically to Rs 120 per kilo.
Even commonly consumed vegetables like cauliflower and cabbage have become more expensive—selling at Rs 50 and Rs 40 per kilo respectively, both higher than last week's prices.
Fruit availability has also taken a hit. The market saw a noticeable decline in the arrival of local fruits, with breadfruit missing entirely from stalls on Tuesday. Premium mango varieties like Malcorado are selling for Rs 500 to Rs 1,000 per dozen, depending on size, while Mangilal mangoes are priced at Rs 600 per dozen.
However, Goa State Horticulture Corporation (GSHC) outlets are offering some respite. Prices at these government-run stores are significantly lower than the open market. For instance:
• Lady finger (okra): Rs 48/kg
• Cabbage: Rs 24/kg
• Cauliflower: Rs 36/kg
• Carrot: Rs 42/kg
• Green chillies: Rs 49/kg
• Onion: Rs 26/kg
• Potato: Rs 34/kg
• Tomato: Rs 38/kg
Traders warn that prices could rise even further if adverse weather persists. With no immediate relief in sight, consumers are bracing for continued financial strain in the days ahead.