Skyrocketing prices of onions and garlic hit Odisha consumers hard

Bhubaneswar, Sept 4: In Odisha, consumers are feeling the pinch as the prices of onions and garlic soar, surpassing Rs 400 per kilogram. In Berhampur, onions are being sold at Rs 55/kg, while garlic has reached a staggering Rs 400/kg. This surge in prices follows a period of high costs for potatoes and other essential groceries, leaving many households struggling.

The escalating prices are causing significant concern among consumers, who fear that prices could climb to Rs 500/kg if supply issues persist. Homemakers are particularly distressed, as they face increasing costs for basic items. "I’ve been checking various shops hoping to find lower prices, but everywhere I go, the prices are the same. I’m forced to cut back on onions," one consumer shared.

Traders cite delays in supply from Nashik due to recent rains as a major factor driving up prices. "The wholesale price has risen from Rs 40/kg to Rs 55/kg in just a few days, and it's likely to increase further. Consumers are now buying onions and garlic in smaller quantities due to the high costs," a local trader explained. While potato prices have stabilized at Rs 35/kg, there's concern that they might also rise again soon.