* Prices of potatoes & onions will remain same as of now
STAFF REPORTER
GUWAHATI: Prices of vegetables in the retail markets in the city will increase due to a decline in production at their sources.
A trader at Pamohi wholesale market said that production of various vegetables at their sources declines during this time of the year. Under such circumstances, the demand will be more than the supply; and, the prices of vegetables in retail markets have increased.
"At present, we have adequate stock of vegetables at the Pamohi wholesale market," the trader added.
But the fact remains that there has been always a big difference in the prices of vegetables and fruits at their sources and wholesale markets in comparison to the retail markets.
A wholesaler at Pamohi market, Asgar Ali said, "We purchase vegetables from Kharupetia, Barpeta, Shillong, Golaghat, Merapani and West Bengal. Potatoes and onions are being purchased from West Bengal and Nasik respectively.
"At present, we are purchasing tomatoes from the source at Rs 7 per kg and selling the item to the retailers at Rs 12 to Rs 14 per kg. Cost of labour and transport, fees at toll gates, bribes to police and many other costs are included when we fix the wholesale prices of vegetables." He pointed out that the wholesalers do not determine the retail prices.
Selling tomatoes between Rs 30 and Rs 40 per kg, a retailer said, "Unlike the wholesalers, the retailers do not purchase vegetables in huge quantities. So we have fixed prices of vegetables in such a way so that the profit margins are retained."
However, even though the prices of vegetables are set to increase due to less production; potatoes and onions would not be costlier. The current wholesale price of potatoes is around Rs 1,200 per quintal. Onions are being sold at the wholesale markets at Rs 1,800 to Rs 2,200 per quintal. The retail prices of both potatoes and onions are expected to remain between Rs 20 and Rs 30 per kg, informed sources.