Veggie prices pinch, locals cut consumption, finds study

Hyderabad: Soaring vegetable prices have left a hole in the pockets of Hyderabadis, with several people even cutting down on consumption, reveals a recent survey, which is conducted in last two months.The survey, on the impact of vegetable prices conducted by LocalCircles — a platform for communities — found that 17% of respondents from the city chose to cut down on consumption in their previous purchase to stay within their budget. A total of 1,435 people from Hyderabad responded to a query on how they are coping with the price rise. "This is the second time since June that prices of essentials, especially tomatoes, have gone up. Currently, prices of onion, garlic, and even green leafy vegetables are going through the roof. It's been three to four months of high vegetable prices this year, and we have cut down on purchases so many times," said Saipriya Sahu, a housewife.Figures showed that 62% of respondents purchased the same quantities of vegetables, but paid more. Another 21% of respondents said they were trying to keep consumption the same but looking for alternative sources to buy from. Speaking about the price rise, Sachin Taparia, founder of LocalCircles, said, "This figures show that the govt is not taking any measures to resolve the price rise issue, although it happens year after year. There should be some forward planning by making alternative arrangements for bringing sufficient essential vegetables. The middle class is suffering due to this mismanagement."