SRINAGAR, Feb 28: Fruit and vegetable prices have surged across Kashmir with the onset of Ramadan, triggering concern over rising household expenses during the holy month.
Consumers said the hike became noticeable at the beginning of the month of fasting, when demand for fruits and fresh vegetables surged due to their regular and sustained use.
Mohammad Ayoub, a shopper at one of the markets in Srinagar, said he observed a clear difference in fruit prices compared to the pre-Ramadan period.
“Before Ramadan, one dozen bananas cost Rs 100. Now I am paying Rs 120 for the same. Guava that was Rs 100 per kilo is being sold at Rs 140,” he said.
He added that vegetable prices have also risen. “Tomatoes, cucumbers and leafy vegetables are costlier now. Overall, household expenses have increased,” he said.
Many families rely heavily on bananas, apples, guavas, cucumbers, tomatoes and other seasonal produce during fasting hours, making price stability crucial.
Another shopper, Manzoor Ahmad Khan from Alochi Bagh, called for stricter market regulation.
“Authorities should issue a rate list and carry out regular inspections. I went to Amira Kadal to purchase fruits and vegetables, but I found higher prices at most shops,” he said.
He said many families struggle to manage expenses when prices of essential eatables rise during Ramadan.
“Each year, when the month begins, prices go up and common people face difficulty affording daily items like fruits and vegetables,” he added.
Fruit seller Mohammad Yousuf attributed the increase mainly to supply-related factors, stating that most fruits sold in Kashmir are sourced from outside the region and wholesale rates have gone up.
“We depend on supplies from other states. When procurement rates are high and demand increases during Ramadan, retail prices also change,” he said.
He maintained that shopkeepers adjust prices according to purchase costs. “If we buy fruits and vegetables at a higher rate, we have to sell accordingly. The increase is linked to supply,” he added.
People have urged the concerned department to closely monitor prices of fruits and vegetables to ensure transparency and prevent overcharging during the month.
Director, Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs, Kashmir, Dr Sagar D Dattatray told ‘Excelsior’ that the situation is being monitored and necessary measures will be taken.
“We are monitoring the situation, and it will be ensured that any overcharging or violation of prescribed rates is addressed,” he said.
