Amid rising tensions on India's western front, the West Bengal government has intensified its monitoring of local markets to prevent illegal hoarding and price manipulation of essential fresh produce. A state-appointed task force is closely observing vegetable markets in Kolkata and surrounding areas, ensuring that prices remain stable.
So far, the task force has reported consistent prices for key vegetables over the past four to five days. Potatoes are selling at $0.24–0.26 per kilogram, ridge gourd at $0.72 per kilogram, and pointed gourd at $0.48–0.60 per kilogram for the Raidighi variety, with the standard variety priced at $0.36 per kilogram.
Authorities conducted inspections in major markets, including Koley Market, Sealdah Fish Market, and Baithakkhana Market, on Saturday. On May 12, they extended inspections to Ultadanga Wholesale Vegetable Market, KMC Market, and Muchibazar. Officials noted that prices of vegetables remained largely unchanged, reflecting stability in the fresh produce sector.
However, the task force detected a minor spike in onion prices at Ultadanga Market, which was promptly corrected to prevent further fluctuations. Rabindranath Koley, a task force member, expressed satisfaction with the price stability, noting that rates across monitored markets aligned with those at Koley and Baithakkhana.
The state government's heightened vigilance is part of a broader strategy to shield consumers from economic pressure during a period of regional uncertainty. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has directed the task force to maintain strict oversight, ensuring that consumers have access to fresh produce at fair prices.
Source: The Indian Express