Prices of essential commodities skyrocket in Kupwara

Kupwara, Mar 19: With the onset of the holy month of Ramadhan prices of essential commodities have skyrocketed in north Kashmir’s Kupwara district giving tough time to the people.

People have alleged that with the onset of Ramadhan wholesalers and retailers have resorted to overpricing which has left them high and dry. People alleged that the Department of Food Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs has failed to keep a check on the rising prices of essential commodities.

Before the onset of Ramadhan the onions which were sold at Rs 25 per kg are now being sold at Rs 40 per kg while spinach and Kashmiri Saag (collard) is sold at Rs 50 per kg. The rate of tomatoes and beans has risen up to Rs 50 and Rs 70 per kg respectively. The rates of potatoes, cauliflower, carrot and peas have also been doubled.

“I fail to understand why wholesalers and retailers resort to overpricing in this holy month,” said a local from Kupwara.

Fruits have also witnessed a steep rise in price. Pomegranates which were sold at Rs 80 per kg are now being sold at Rs 150 per kg. Likewise black grapes are being sold at Rs 200 per kg which was sold at Rs 160 prior to Ramadhan. The rates of other fruits have risen manifold.

The prices of eggs, mutton, beef and chicken have also witnessed rise. Chicken and mutton have also witnessed substantial rise and are being sold at Rs 170 and Rs 650 per kg respectively.

People alleged that the rates provided by the Department of Food Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs are not being adhered to by wholesale dealers and retailers. Meanwhile District Administration Kupwara has set up teams to carry out market checking so that a check is maintained on rates of essential commodities.