In Jibannagar, Chuadanga, continuous rainfall during the ongoing monsoon season has severely impacted vegetable farming. Many farmers have reported their crops rotting in the fields due to excessive rain, while low-lying farmlands have gone underwater, causing further damage to vegetable and other crop yields.
As a result, prices of almost all vegetables have increased significantly. Aubergines are now selling for over Tk 100 per kg, and the price of pointed gourd (potol) has doubled in just a week. Onion prices have gone up by Tk 20 per kg. The price of green chillies remains high since the beginning of the rainy season.
A visit to the local kitchen market on Friday morning revealed widespread concern among customers over rising prices. Many vegetables have nearly doubled in price in just a few weeks, putting a serious strain on lower-income families.
Aubergines, previously priced at Tk 70 per kg, are now being sold for Tk 100–120. Green chillies have risen from Tk 140 to Tk 200, pointed gourd from Tk 30 to Tk 60, okra from Tk 35 to Tk 70, bitter gourd from Tk 60 to Tk 100, ridge gourd from Tk 20 to Tk 40, green banana from Tk 30 to Tk 50, cucumber from Tk 40 to Tk 60, and yardlong beans from Tk 30 to Tk 50. Bottle gourds, previously Tk 30, now cost Tk 50, while red amaranth is selling for Tk 15–20 per bunch, up from Tk 10.
In just a few days, vegetable prices have risen by Tk 20–50 per kg. Prices of potatoes, garlic, dried chillies, and sweet pumpkin remain stable. However, prices of taro and hog plum have decreased, with taro now being sold at Tk 30 per kg.
The fish market has also seen a price hike. Small tilapia and fingerlings are being sold at Tk 180–200 per kg, while larger fish like rui, katla, and mrigel are priced above Tk 300. Small hilsa (jatka) is selling for Tk 600 per kg. Only pangas fish remains relatively affordable.
Buyers have blamed market syndicates for the price hikes and urged authorities to take action to bring prices within reach.
