Vegetable prices in Dhaka have continued to rise for the past two weeks, straining household budgets and affecting daily sales for market vendors. Most vegetables were selling on Friday between Tk 60 and Tk 80 per kilogram, with some items priced even higher depending on quality and location.
In several city markets, including Karwan Bazar and Mohammadpur Krishi Market, vegetables such as beans, okra, bitter gourd, eggplant, and cauliflower were priced well above average rates. Cauliflower, in particular, was selling between Tk 50 and Tk 60 per kg.
Alamgir Hossain, a vegetable vendor, explained the situation: “We are buying vegetables at higher prices from the wholesale markets. The overall supply has dropped, and that’s why prices are going up. It’s affecting our sales — customers who used to buy one kilogram are now only taking half.”
He added that due to the higher costs, traders have also reduced the quantity of stock they bring in each day. “Previously, we’d bring 10 to 20 kg of vegetable items. Now we’re bringing only 5 to 7 kg,” Alamgir said.
Market analysts suggest the price rise is seasonal and linked to a temporary dip in production and supply. However, with the next harvest expected soon, sellers are hopeful prices will start to ease.
Dhaka, like many major urban centers, experiences frequent fluctuations in vegetable prices due to climate patterns, transportation disruptions, and market demand. The current spike is being closely watched by both traders and consumers, who are bracing for further challenges if the supply chain does not stabilize quickly.
Bd-pratidin English/ Jisan