Households feel pinch as eatable prices rise during Ramadhan

Srinagar, Mar 1: Prices of essential items, including vegetables, dates and other eatables, have increased across markets in Kashmir during Ramadhan, heightening concerns among consumers over rising household expenses during the holy month.

Shoppers across Srinagar and other parts of the Valley said rates of commonly used vegetables such as tomatoes, cucumbers, spinach and other leafy greens have risen over the past week, coinciding with increased demand for sehri and iftar meals.

Chicken, a staple source of protein during Ramadhan, is currently being sold at around Rs 150 in several markets, according to buyers. Consumers said the combined rise in vegetable and poultry prices has significantly pushed up daily kitchen costs.

Dates, an essential item for breaking the fast, have also become costlier compared to last year. Buyers said several popular varieties are being sold at higher rates this season, with some witnessing a noticeable jump in price. Traders attribute the increase to higher wholesale costs and transportation expenses, while consumers say the hike has added to the overall financial strain during Ramadhan.

Residents also pointed to the absence of an official rate list as a major factor behind what they described as arbitrary pricing. Since the government discontinued the practice of issuing rate lists for essential commodities, buyers say prices are now being fixed at the discretion of dealers, resulting in wide variations across markets.

“Without a rate list, there is no benchmark. Each shopkeeper charges according to his own assessment,” said a resident of downtown Srinagar. “Prices differ from one market to another, and consumers have no way to question them.”

Several shoppers said that while demand typically rises during Ramadan each year, the lack of official pricing guidelines has made households more vulnerable to sudden hikes in essential items.

Traders, however, attributed the increase to supply-side pressures, higher procurement costs and transportation expenses. A vegetable seller in Srinagar said most produce sold in the Valley is sourced from outside the region and wholesale rates have increased in recent days.

“When purchase prices go up and demand increases during Ramadan, retail rates also change. We sell according to what we pay at the wholesale level,” he said.

Consumers have urged the Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs Department to intensify market monitoring and ensure transparency to prevent overcharging during the holy month.

Officials said the department is keeping a close watch on the situation and will act against any violations brought to their notice.