Indore: Indore is currently facing a significant spike in tomato prices, with retail rates surpassing Rs 120 per kilogram, as reported by vegetable traders from the city’s Choithram market. The dramatic increase is primarily attributed to disrupted supply chains and adverse weather conditions affecting crop yields.
Mohammad Salim Chaudhary, a trader at the Devi Ahilyabai Holkar Choithram Mandi, highlighted that while tomatoes are being imported from Maharashtra, the overall supply remains insufficient. Consequently, wholesale prices have surged to between Rs 60 and Rs 80 per kilogram. In the retail sector, these tomatoes are now being retailed at prices ranging from Rs 100 to Rs 120 per kilogram.
Factors Driving the Price Hike
Chaudhary explained, “High-quality tomatoes are being brought in from Maharashtra. However, heavy rainfall in Madhya Pradesh has severely damaged tomato crops, resulting in reduced production and a sharp increase in prices. Initially, tomatoes at Choithram Mandi were available for Rs 40-50 per kilogram, but prices have gradually climbed to Rs 60 per kilogram at the wholesale level and up to Rs 120 per kilogram in the retail market.”
Impact on Other Vegetables
The shortage and rising prices are not limited to tomatoes alone. Onions have also seen a steep price increase. Onions sourced from Nashik, Maharashtra, are now being sold for Rs 50 to Rs 60 per kilogram in the wholesale market, up from the previous Rs 15 per kilogram. In retail outlets, onion prices have surged to between Rs 60 and Rs 80 per kilogram.
Consumer Challenges
Retailers noted that consumers, who typically purchase around 2 kilograms of tomatoes for their households, are now struggling to afford even half a kilogram due to the steep price hikes. “The supply of goods is low, and unless the tomato crops in Madhya Pradesh improve, we can expect prices to continue rising,” Chaudhary warned.
Looking Ahead
The ongoing adverse weather conditions and supply chain disruptions are expected to keep vegetable prices high in Indore. Traders and consumers alike are bracing for continued inflation in essential food items, putting additional financial pressure on households.
The current scenario in Indore underscores the vulnerability of agricultural markets to environmental factors and supply chain inefficiencies. Policymakers and market authorities may need to intervene to stabilize prices and ensure the availability of essential commodities to the population.
