Price Pain Persists: Kashmiris struggle with high food costs

Srinagar, Apr 1: Despite the government's move to decontrol prices of food items in Kashmir, there is no respite from soaring costs for the common people, especially during the holy month of Ramadhan.

Consumers across the valley lament the exorbitant prices of essential commodities, saying the rising rates are taking a heavy toll on their pockets and dampening the festive spirit.

The decision to decontrol prices, aimed at promoting competition and ensuring availability, has backfired as sellers overlook government-designated rates and sell vegetables, fruits, and other essential items at inflated prices.

Consumers across Srinagar said that the failure of authorities to keep a check on the market is burning a hole in their pockets.

“In the holy month of Ramadhan, there is a huge consumption of these essentials, and people usually consume fruits and vegetables on a large scale. With the absence of regular checks in the market, vendors are selling these essentials at higher prices,” said Ishfaq Ahmad, a local from Srinagar.

A market survey conducted by this reporter has unveiled the staggering prices of essential vegetables and fruits across markets in Srinagar. Tomatoes are being sold at exorbitant rates ranging from Rs 40 to Rs 50 per kilogram, while beans are priced at a whopping Rs 80 per kg. Carrots, which are considered a staple vegetable, are being sold at Rs 50 per kg, and bottle gourds are being sold at Rs 40 per kg.

“Watermelons were less in demand a few days back, but now their demand has picked up, so has the rates soared with a Kg being sold at Rs 50. The same is the case with other fruits. The government should take care of prices amid the holy month of Ramadhan,” said a consumer.

The market survey findings indicate that fruits such as grapes and muskmelons are being sold at prices ranging from 100 to 120 rupees per kilogram in most markets. Similarly, the cost of bananas has also surged to 120 rupees per dozen across Srinagar. Residents have expressed their concern, calling for the issuance of a comprehensive rate list and stricter enforcement.

Shahid Ahmad, a resident of Hazratbal, voiced his disappointment, stating, "The rates list is unavailable, and there is a lack of regular market monitoring. Without addressing these issues, prices will continue to rise. We expected fruit and vegetable prices to be controlled during Ramadan, but unfortunately, that hasn't happened."

According to a senior official from the Food Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs Department, they no longer have the authority to set rates following the withdrawal of powers that previously allowed the FCS&CA to publish rate lists.