Vegetable Prices Surge Again in Keralam as Beans Cross Rs 100

Thiruvananthapuram: Vegetable prices are rising sharply again in Keralam. Traders attribute the increase mainly to heavy rains and floods in other states, which have affected harvesting and the supply of vegetables to Keralam. The prices of beans, green gram and shallots have crossed Rs 100 per kg.

Beans are currently priced at Rs 120 per kg, while green gram costs Rs 140 per kg. The price of shallots has also reached Rs 100 per kg. Over the past two weeks, the price of beans has increased by Rs 30, green gram by Rs 40 and shallots by Rs 40. Garlic is currently priced at Rs 220 per kg.

The sharp increase in vegetable prices even outside the festival season is affecting household budgets. Traders said the prices of several vegetables have increased significantly over the past two weeks. Although prices vary depending on the size and quality of the vegetables, consumers are bearing the burden of the price rise.

Traders are concerned that a further increase in prices could affect sales. They are also worried that consumers may reduce the quantity they purchase due to the high prices.

Traders said the current price rise was caused by reduced harvests and disruptions in the supply of vegetables to Keralam following rain-related damage in neighbouring states. They warned that prices could rise further in the coming days if availability declines further.

A large share of the vegetables reaching Keralam’s markets comes from other states. Vegetable prices had risen sharply after Onam. Although there was a slight decline later, prices have started rising again after a brief period of relief.