Heavy rainfall has wreaked havoc on vegetable crops in Chhattisgarh, leading to a significant surge in prices. Approximately one thousand hectares of vegetable farms have been affected, with crops like tomatoes, okra, gourds, and cucumbers perishing due to the incessant downpour. This has drastically reduced the supply in local markets, causing prices to escalate. The impact is being felt by consumers as the cost of essential vegetables, especially tomatoes, has seen a sharp rise. Retail prices for tomatoes have reached 50 to 60 rupees per kilogram, while other vegetables are also significantly more expensive.
The situation is further compounded by the fact that local tomato supplies have dwindled. Tomatoes are now being sourced from Bangalore, adding to the cost. Wholesale prices have reached 600 to 650 rupees per crate, a stark contrast to the 250 to 300 rupees per crate just ten days prior. This price increase affects not only tomatoes but all vegetables, with many now being sourced from states like Karnataka, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, and Gujarat. The wholesale prices of most vegetables range from 30 to 60 rupees per kilogram, with retail prices between 40 and 80 rupees per kilogram.
