Shahin Bepari Lambe
Panaji
Prices of several essential vegetables have nearly doubled in Goan markets, with vendors attributing the rise to reduced supplies from neighbouring Karnataka and increased demand in the state. Vendors said prices could rise further if the shortage continues.
French beans are now selling at Rs 160 per kg, up from Rs 80, while flat green beans have increased from Rs 60 to Rs 120 per kg. Ginger has doubled from Rs 160 to Rs 320 per kg. Cucumber has risen from Rs 40 to Rs 60 per kg, while coriander is now selling at
Rs 40 per bunch, compared to Rs 20 earlier. Garlic is priced between Rs 80 and Rs 100 per 250 grams, depending on its size.
Panaji market vendor Hyder Ali said the price rise was mainly due to a shortage of vegetables arriving from Karnataka.
“There has been very little rain in Karnataka and the supply of vegetables has reduced. Goa depends heavily on the neighbouring state, so whenever production falls their prices here increase immediately. The present weather situation has affected cultivation and pushed prices up,” said Ali.
Another vendor, Dadu Makandar, said demand was high while supply remained limited.
“Vegetables like ginger, coriander, garlic are used in almost every household and in dishes such as mutton, chicken and even in veg dishes. If the shortage continues in neighbouring states, prices may increase even more,” said Makandar.
Wholesale vendor Rehan Harabnalli said the price rise had affected bulk orders and reduced margins for traders.
“Due to the price rise, we are not taking orders
in bulk. Earlier we used to get good rates in the wholesale market, but due to the price rise there is very less margin, hence we are not taking bulk orders,” said Harabnalli.
