Bhubaneswar, April 3: The government has fixed the retail price of potatoes at ₹12 per kg and warned of strict action, including arrest and imprisonment, against violators. The directive came a day after a report by Prameya, triggering immediate enforcement measures across the capital.

The decision was taken at a high-level meeting chaired by Additional District Magistrate Ramesh Jena, attended by Khordha District Supply Officer Gyanendra Mishra, BMC officials, and trader representatives. Discussions focused on rising prices of potatoes and onions.

During the meeting, traders from Kuberpuri wholesale market said potatoes were being sold at ₹500–₹600 per quintal. They argued that transportation and sorting costs push retail prices up to ₹14 per kg. However, officials rejected the claim and reiterated that the retail price must not exceed ₹12 per kg. Onion prices were also capped at ₹20 per kg.

Following the meeting, enforcement teams launched raids in Unit-1 and Unit-4 markets. Traders were warned of strict action if found violating the price cap. Officials also inspected grocery shops, checking prices of rice, pulses, and edible oil, along with stock verification in major warehouses.

The administration has urged traders to cooperate to ensure price stability in the market.