Rise in fuel prices adds to transportation costs; heavy rains disrupt transportation and supply chains
With prices of vegetables nearly doubling, the common man is finding it increasingly difficult to afford basic necessities.
Photo Credits: Narayan Pissurlenkar
PANAJI
Over the past several weeks, the common man in Goa has been grappling with the rising prices of essential commodities. From fuel to meat products, everything has seen a price hike, but the most severe impact has been felt with the soaring cost of vegetables. The prices have almost doubled in the last week, making it increasingly difficult for people to afford basic necessities.
Several factors contribute to this steep increase in vegetable prices. One of the primary reasons is that most vegetables available in Goa are imported from neighbouring states. The ongoing monsoon season has further complicated the situation, as heavy rains disrupt transportation and supply chains. Additionally, the rise in fuel prices has added to the transportation costs, which in turn, has led to higher prices for vegetables.
The surge in vegetable prices is widespread. Onions, which were previously affordable, have now shot up to nearly ₹50 per kilogram. Potatoes are priced between ₹45 and ₹50 per kilogram, while tomatoes have risen to ₹80 per kilogram. Other vegetables have also seen significant price increases. For example, cabbage is priced at ₹47 per kilogram, ladyfingers at ₹65, carrots at ₹43, and cluster beans at ₹70.
The Horticulture Department is offering vegetables at slightly discounted rates to provide some relief to consumers. Onions and potatoes are available at ₹43 per kilogram, tomatoes at ₹55, cabbage at ₹47, ladyfingers at ₹65, carrots at ₹43, and cluster beans at ₹70. While these prices are lower than those in retail stores and markets, they are still higher than what consumers were paying just a few weeks ago.
For many Goans, these price hikes are straining their daily budgets. Vegetables are a staple in the diet of many households, and the rising costs mean that families are forced to cut back on other essentials or find alternative, less nutritious options. This situation is particularly hard on low-income families who were already struggling to make ends meet.
Local vendors and retailers are also feeling the impact. With the rising prices, their sales have dropped as consumers are buying less. Some vendors have reported a significant decrease in foot traffic, as people are either looking for cheaper alternatives or buying only what is absolutely necessary.
Mustafa Shaikh, a vendor, said, "Yes, there is a big hike in vegetable prices. We buy at high prices too, and we have to sell at those rates. We try our best, but there's not much we can do. Hopefully, the prices will come down, but we can't say when. The high prices are due to taxes, transportation costs, and the challenging climate."
Meanwhile, Fatima Fernandes, a customer at the market, said, "Vegetable prices are just increasing. It is becoming very difficult for common people to survive. We hope there will be some control over the price hike."
The ongoing price hikes in vegetables are a significant concern for the people of Goa. With prices nearly doubling in some cases, the common man is finding it increasingly difficult to afford basic necessities. While the Horticulture Department’s discounted rates provide some relief, they are not enough to offset the overall rise in costs. Addressing the underlying factors, such as transportation issues and fuel prices, is crucial for bringing vegetable prices back to a more manageable level. Until then, Goans will have to continue navigating these challenging times, hoping for a more stable and affordable future.
