Food price variations baffle consumers

This week saw a mixed trend in the prices of perishable goods, with the cost of most vegetables continuing to rise, while seasonal fruits also remained expensive.

Additionally, the lack of enforcement of the official price list compounded public frustration, reflecting what many perceive as the administration's indifference to the day-to-day struggles of citizens.

Despite district authorities urging the public to file complaints regarding overcharging and price list violations, many residents report that their grievances are either dismissed or remain unaddressed. This lack of follow-up emboldened some vendors to continue overcharging with impunity. In the poultry market, the price of live chicken remained steady, officially fixed between Rs397 and Rs411 per kilogramme, but was being sold at higher rates of Rs460 to Rs480. Chicken meat, officially priced at Rs595, was sold for as high as Rs670 to Rs870 per kg.

Vegetable prices saw significant increases. The price of grade-A potatoes rose by Rs4 per kg, fixed at Rs80-85 but sold at Rs140-150. The price of onions increased by Rs5 per kg, officially listed at Rs140-150 but sold at Rs200-220. Tomatoes saw a sharp increase of Rs30 per kg, with the grade-A variety priced at Rs160-170 but sold at Rs250-280.