Restrictions bring flower, veggie prices down

Usually, the market records very few footfalls on Sundays. Now it is deserted, due to which the prices have decreased, said S Mookandi, secretary of Koyambedu Flower Merchants’ Association. “We were already receiving very few customers. On Saturday, officials announced that two-wheelers are not allowed inside the market after 7.30 am,” he said.

Earlier, vendors from various smaller markets across the city used to throng the market complex. But after the rule was imposed, there are hardly any coming to the market, added Mookandi. Now, jasmine is being sold at around Rs 60 - Rs 75 per kg, damask rose Rs 10 per kg, rose Rs 10 - Rs 20 per kg, marigold Rs 60 - Rs 70 and tuberose Rs 10 - 15 per kg, he said.

The situation is the same for the traders at the vegetable market. Every year, the prices would increase after April 20. But this year, it is expected to remain low till the lockdown is over, said P Sukumaran, secretary, Koyambedu Wholesale Merchants’ Association.

After the general public was asked not to come to the market complex to buy vegetables to avoid crowding, the sale is very low after 6 am – when the retail vendors make their purchase and leave – he said.