Shahin Bepari Lambe
Panaji
Barely days after a brief relief in vegetable prices, shoppers at Panaji market are once again facing an increase in some items.
Vendors said rates that had dropped by Rs 10 earlier have now risen by as much as Rs 20 due to heavy rains in Karnataka and the approaching festive season.
“There was some relief, but now prices have shot up again,” said vegetable vendor Dadapeer Mulla. “If the rain continues like this in Karnataka then the supply is expected to hit, and we expect rates to rise further.”
Vendors said that vegetable prices fluctuate with availability. Heavy rainfall in Karnataka disrupts transportation and harvests, leading to shortages in Goa.
The cost of ladyfinger dropped from Rs 80 to Rs 60 per kg, while potatoes remained stable at Rs 40 per kg. Tomatoes rose from Rs 40 to Rs 60 per kg, carrots held at Rs 80 per kg, and green peas spiked from Rs 120 to Rs 200 per kg. Garlic reduced from Rs 300 to Rs 240 per kg, ginger declined from Rs 200 to Rs 150 per kg, and onions remained steady at Rs 40 per kg. Cauliflower was priced between Rs 40 and Rs 50 per piece depending on size, while green chillies remained stable at Rs 120 per kg.
With Ganesh Chaturthi around the corner, vendors expect demand for onions and potatoes to increase.
“Every year, just before Chaturthi, prices go up due to demand,” said vendor Ataulla Pathan. “People buy in large quantities, especially onions, potatoes, and greens.”
Another shopper, Suresh Kamat, said, “The government should find ways to control prices, especially during festivals when everyone is preparing special meals.”
We understand that rain affects supply, but
