Bhubaneswar: Garlic and onions have become very expensive in Odisha with prices soaring in Berhampur, Bhubaneswar, Cuttack and other places of the state.
According to reports, in Berhampur, onion is being sold at Rs 55 per kg while garlic has been priced at Rs 400 per kg. In Bhubaneswar, onion prices have soared to Rs 60 per kg and garlic is sold at Rs 300 to 350 per kg, said sources.
Consumers in Odisha who were recuperating from high prices of potato thanks to the stalemate with West Bengal, resolved during the last week of August, are now bearing the brunt of a spike in onion and garlic prices.
While the price rise is attributed by traders to rain-related supply delays from Nashik, people fear the shortage may lead to much higher prices in the following days.
A local trader at Unit 6 area of Bhubaneswar said that potato price has stabilised at Rs 30 to 35 per kg, however, the prices of other vegetables, especially onion and garlic have risen.
The wholesale price is now Rs 48 per kg and is being sold at Rs 55 per kg in retail market. “A few days back, it was Rs 40 per kg and has now increased to Rs 55 per kg in a few days. It is expected to rise further tomorrow,” he said.
With the increase in prices, the consumption of onion and garlic has reduced marginally in cities and towns across the state, the sources added.
