10-15 per cent jump in vegetable prices likely this week, say vendors

 “Many crops are now at the end of their second cycle, and so supply has come down. Additionally, supply from neighbouring states like Karnataka has also declined due to the rains in the area. This can lead to a 10 to 15 per cent rise in prices for the next one week, after which we expect it to flatten,” said P Sukumaran, secretary, Koyambedu Wholesale Market Merchants’ Association.

 Fruit prices are also expected to follow the same trends, he added. 

Tomato prices, which were at Rs 40- 50 last week, will see a percentile increase in the week to come. Beans are currently priced at Rs 20, potatoes at Rs 25, and carrots at Rs 20.

 Vendors hope that the easing of the lockdown will make transport of wholesale produce easier in the weeks to come. They also complained that social distancing and maintaining hygiene are remaining a concern for the vendors at the market.