The prices of essential commodities in a various kitchen markets of Gurudaspur upazila in Natore are steeply rising over the last few days. The traders took the chance to raise the prices of these daily necessities on the pretext of continuous rain. In the absence of a market monitoring team, sellers are setting the price on their own, which puts additional stress on the consumers.
When this correspondent visited Chachkoir Bazar, Gurudashpur Bazar and Nazirpur Bazar on Thursday, it was seen that prices of the most vegetables increased by Tk 20 to Tk 30 per kg compared to the previous two weeks. Most of the vegetables are being sold at Tk 80 to 120 per kg. The prices of vegetables, fishes and meats have now increased to a point that the general public cannot afford them anymore.
It was learnt that, green chillie are being sold at Tk 400 per kg, bottle gourds at Tk 80 per piece, brinjals at 120 tk per kg, bitter gourd at Tk 120 per kg, tomato at Tk 320 per kg, beans at Tk 200 per kg, onions at Tk 120 per kg, taro roots stem at Tk 100 per kg, four pieces of eggs at tk 55, broiler chicken at Tk 200 per kg, sonali chicken at Tk 280 per kg, local variety of chicken at Tk 480 per kg, beef at Tk 700 per kg, mutton at Tk 950 per kg, rui fish at 300 to 400 per kg and local variety of river fish at Tk 800 to 1200 per kg.
Local residents said continuous rains have led to a slight decrease in supply. However, as there is no market monitoring system, the sellers took the opportunity to increase the price. Consumers expressed concern over the rising costs, saying, the increase in prices of daily necessities is making our regular lives difficult. Yet, no initiative was taken from the administration to monitor the market.
The prices of vegetables, fish, meat, milk, and eggs remain relatively low in Rajshahi and Natore. However, that is not the case in Gurudaspur. During the last week, the prices of essential commodities surged beyond what the can afford, said the locals.
Local traders in various markets claimed that the rising prices are a result of reduced supply due to rainfall and transport disruptions. However, buyers said that was just an excuse. Retail sales have dropped significantly due to the soaring prices.
Concerned consumers are called for swift action from the local administration to implement proper market monitoring and establish a fixed price list to prevent further exploitation.
Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Salma Akhtar said is conducting drives regularly. The monitoring will be strengthened and prompt action will be taken on the basis of investigation.
