Prices of essentials jump in Khulna kitchen markets amid rains

Prices of daily essentials have increased unusually in Khulna kitchen markets due to a supply shortage and incessant rain, leaving low- and middle-income people struggling.

Visiting different city markets on Friday, it was found that vegetables are not available for less than Tk 60 per kg while the price of green chili has jumped by Tk 40 per kg in just a few days.

Green chili is being sold at Tk 280–360 per kg compared to Tk 200–220 a week ago.

Traders blamed this week’s heavy rainfall for damaging crops, leading to supply shortages.

Prices of almost all vegetables, including eggplant, bitter gourd, beans, okra, and early winter crops such as cauliflower and cabbage, have seen a sharp rise.

A piece of cauliflower or cabbage now sells for Tk 80–100, up from Tk 60–70 earlier. Beans are being sold at Tk 240 per kg, Tk 70–80 higher than last week.

Besides, rice prices have increased by Tk 3–4 per kg over the past month and finer quality Miniket is selling at Tk 75 per kg and Basmati at Tk 90.

Loose soybean oil now costs Tk 195 per liter while bottled oil is Tk 183 per liter.

Coarse lentils are selling at Tk 100 per kg and finer ones at Tk 150.

“There are plenty of vegetables in the market, yet prices are rising every day. Authorities must intervene,” said Safiqul Islam, a shopper at KCC Shondha Bazar.

Consumers also demanded mobile court drives against syndicates accused of manipulating the market.

Mohammad Hafizur Rahman, a college teacher visiting Rupsha KCC Market, said, “prices of nearly all essentials including lentils, oil, vegetables have increased and suggested the need for mobile courts to monitor and regulate the market.”

Traders said prices may ease if the weather improves and supply increases.