Bhubaneswar, May 8: Odisha has witnessed a surge in potato prices following the West Bengal elections, with wholesale rates increasing and retail prices in local markets now ranging between ₹13 and ₹15 per kilogram.
The continuous rise in prices, following earlier increases in gas and milk rates, is affecting household budgets. In Bhubaneswar, at the Kuberpur wholesale potato depot, a 50 kg sack that previously sold for ₹350 is now being sold for ₹500–550, which translates to around ₹10–11 per kilogram. Retail prices in local markets have reached ₹15 per kilogram, while some areas such as Unit-1 market are selling potatoes at ₹13 per kilogram.
According to Shaktisangh Mishra, a representative of the Kuberpur Potato Traders Association, West Bengal farmers had been supplying potatoes to the markets earlier, but now the supply has slowed down. With many old stocks already sold, prices are rising due to reduced availability. Additionally, around 3% of the stored potatoes are reported as spoiled, further tightening supply.
Along with potatoes, prices of onions and garlic have also seen a slight increase. Onions are being sold at ₹30 per kilogram, while garlic is priced at ₹250 per kilogram in retail markets.
Officials have warned that hoarding or withholding potato stocks by traders will invite strict action. Market observers have noted that artificial shortages are driving prices higher, putting additional strain on consumers already grappling with rising costs of essentials like gas and vegetables.
