Hike in fuel prices pushes up vegetable rates in city markets

Ranchi: The recent increase in petrol and diesel prices has begun impacting vegetable prices across the city, with traders attributing the rise to higher transportation costs. Prices of vegetables arriving in the state capital from neighbouring districts and states have begun inching up, adding to the burden on household budgets.

Most vegetables sold in Ranchi are sourced from nearby districts such as Ramgarh, Khunti, Gumla, Lohardaga and Hazaribag, while some seasonal produce also arrives from West Bengal, Odisha and Bihar. Traders said the recent frequent rise in fuel prices has increased freight charges, which is directly affecting retail rates.

At local markets, potato prices have risen from Rs 15 per kg to Rs 20 per kg, onion from Rs 20 per kg to Rs 25, cabbage from Rs 25 per kg to Rs 30, okra from Rs 30 per kg to Rs 40, beans from Rs 30 per kg to Rs 40 and brinjal from Rs 40 per kg to Rs 50 over the past few days.

“Transporters have increased their charges following hike in diesel price. Operating costs of vehicles bringing vegetables to Ranchi has increased, and that impact is ultimately reflected in retail prices,” said Shiv Shankar, a vegetable trader.

Manish Kumar, a wholesaler at Naga Baba Khatal vegetable market, said customers are expressing concern over the rising prices. “People are buying smaller quantities compared to earlier. The increase may appear small per kg, but it affects daily household expenses,” he said.

Echoing similar concerns, buyer Chotelal Shah said traders are struggling to balance costs and customer expectations. “Both sellers and buyers are suffering. If fuel prices continue to rise, vegetable rates may increase further in the coming weeks,” he added.