Winter vegetable prices have eased due to increased supply in markets, offering some relief to consumers. However, this respite is overshadowed by rising prices of rice and fish, which remain high despite abundant availability.
A visit to markets like Karwan Bazar and Aganagar in Keraniganj on Friday revealed improved availability of winter vegetables, with traders reporting price reductions of 5–10 taka per kilogram over the past week.
Vegetable Prices
Brinjal now sells for 40–50 taka per kg, bitter gourd at 40 taka, beetroot at 60 taka, radish at 20 taka, and patol at 30–40 taka per kg. Carrots are priced at 35–40 taka, while beans cost 25 taka per kg. Broccoli is available for 30–40 taka per piece, and cauliflower ranges between 20–25 taka. The price of green chilies has also dropped, retailing at 50–80 taka per kg.
Consumers expressed satisfaction with the falling vegetable prices, noting that such reductions, if sustained, would bring significant relief.
High Fish Prices
While vegetable prices offer some respite, fish prices remain elevated, especially for Hilsa, which has seen a sharp increase. A kilogram of Hilsa now costs 2,400 taka, with larger sizes priced as high as 3,200 taka. Other fish, such as local koi (800 taka), rui (300–350 taka), and shrimp (800 taka), have also seen high prices.
Rice Market Struggles
Rice prices have steadily climbed over the past three weeks, with fine rice increasing by 4–8 taka per kg and coarse rice by 2–3 taka. Miniket rice now costs 76–80 taka per kg, while polao rice sells for 120–125 taka per kg. Consumers attribute these price hikes to profiteering by traders, urging stronger market oversight to stabilize prices.
Meat and Poultry
Broiler chicken prices have slightly declined by 10 taka, now selling for 200–210 taka per kg. Local chicken remains high at 550–600 taka per kg, while beef and mutton are priced at 750–780 taka and 1,050–1,200 taka per kg, respectively.
Call for Market Oversight
Both buyers and sellers stress the need for consistent market monitoring. Consumers believe that irregular oversight allows price manipulation, while traders argue that strict enforcement can curb unscrupulous practices. Regular inspections and action against unfair practices could help bring stability to essential commodity prices.
