Chatmohar, Correspondent :
Vegetable prices have risen sharply in Chatmohar and neighbouring upazilas of Pabna, including green pepper. Members of lower- and middle-income families expressed frustration when visiting local markets. Vendors reported that the price increases are due to reduced market traffic caused by recent rainfall.
Green pepper prices, in particular, are now out of control. Buyers noted that at certain times of the year, the prices of onions, potatoes, or green pepper can surge unexpectedly, with no clear reason.
A market visit to Chatmohar revealed that most vegetable prices have increased by 10 to 20 taka per kilogram over the past week. Green pepper has seen the steepest rise, now selling for 300 to 320 taka per kilogram in retail markets, compared to 180-200 taka just a week ago.
Most vegetables are now difficult to find below 80 taka per kilogram. Brinjal is priced at 100-120 taka per kg, while beans are 200 taka per kg.
The prices of chichinga, dhundal, dhanash, patal, karla, kankrol, barbati, and jhing have risen to between 80 and 140 taka per kg. Kurikachu is priced at 60 taka per kg, olakachu at 50 taka per kg, cucumber at 80 taka per kg, tomato at 140 taka per kg, radish and papaya at 40 taka per kg, and red leaf at 120 taka per kg. A handful of kachakala, pumpkin, and gourd is priced at 40 taka per piece.
Buyers complained that traders raise prices whenever it rains. Vegetable sellers explained that continuous rainfall is damaging crops in the fields, leading to low market supply.
Meanwhile, fish prices have also surged. Rui is selling for 350-400 taka per kg, katla for 260-280 taka, silver cup for 180-240 taka, shing for 600 taka, tengra for 500-800 taka, and boal fish at 800-1,500 taka per kg.
In contrast, meat and poultry prices remain relatively stable. Beef is being sold at 700 taka per kg, khasi at 1,000 taka, broiler chicken at 180-190 taka, desi duck at 500-600 taka, golden chicken at 220-260 taka per kg, and domestic chicken at 450 taka per kg.
