In Chandigarh, the price of tomatoes has jumped from ₹30 per kg in June to ₹70 per kg at local markets. This hike is due to the disruption of tomato production in neighboring Punjab due to inclement weather. To meet the demands of the public, Chandigarh is now relying on supplies from other states. This adds transportation costs and further inflates prices.
The situation is not limited to Chandigarh. Major cities like Delhi are also experiencing a similar surge. The price of tomatoes in Delhi has reached ₹90 per kg, a significant increase compared to pre-monsoon rates. This rise is echoed in other parts of the country, with cities like Chennai witnessing price hikes for vegetables, including tomatoes, due to crop damage and transportation issues caused by heavy rainfall.
Consumers are frustrated by the sudden price increase. With tomatoes being a staple in many Indian households, the rising cost strains the budget. Retailers are struggling to maintain their margins and are forced to pass on the additional cost to consumers. This situation worsens as there is a risk of spoilage. The vendors may face losses from unsold ripened tomatoes.
Experts anticipate that the prices shall stabilize in the coming days. In the meantime, consumers may have to deal with the current market prices until the disruption caused by the monsoon settles.
