Suhail Rather
Bandipora, March 11 (KNS): The prices of essential commodities, including fruits and vegetables, have soared during the holy month of Ramadan in Bandipora, with authorities seemingly turning a blind eye to the plight of consumers.
Agitated consumers have voiced concerns over the steep price hike and accused the administration of failing to regulate the market. They allege that profiteers and hoarders have been left unchecked, exploiting the situation at the expense of the common people.
“Shopkeepers and street vendors selling fruits, vegetables, and meat are fleecing poor consumers, as there is no mechanism in place to curb overpricing,” said a local resident.
Meat sellers are reportedly charging as much as ?800 per kg, while essential food items like bananas are being sold at ?100–?150 per dozen, and saag at ?80 per kg. Consumers argue that both retailers and wholesalers share responsibility for these skyrocketing prices.
“No shopkeeper or street vendor follows the rate list issued by the concerned authorities,” said Showket Ahmad Wani, a consumer.
However, in various Bandipora markets, chicken is being sold at ?170–?180 per kg.
Mohammad Arif, another local, highlighted the fluctuating prices, stating that he bought a tray of two-and-a-half dozen eggs for ?150 today, whereas just a day earlier, the same cost him ?190.
Additionally, prices of locally grown vegetables such as nadru, turnips, and radishes have seen a sharp rise, while authorities continue to pass the buck.
Locals allege that the government has failed to deploy market checking squads, allowing black marketing to flourish unchecked.
“The black marketing of essential commodities is at its peak. The government’s inaction is making people suffer, as those engaged in price manipulation operate openly,” said Jahangeer Ahmad, a resident.
Attempts to reach the Assistant Director of Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs, Bandipora, for a comment proved futile, as his phone remained switched off. (KNS)