The humble tomato, a kitchen staple, is causing a stir in Pune as prices surge to unprecedented levels, leaving consumers grappling with a strain on their household budgets. Just a fortnight ago, tomatoes were retailing between Rs 20 and 30 per kg; today, the prices have skyrocketed to Rs 40-60 per kg, a staggering increase.
In the wholesale market at the Agriculture Produce Marketing Committee (APMC) in Gultekdi, prices have witnessed an alarming surge of over 150 percent, escalating from Rs 5-8 per kg to Rs 15-20 per kg in just two weeks.
Officials from APMC Pune acknowledge that this is the first price increase in the last three months since the price crash in the first week of August. Concerns loom over the possibility of further hikes as the supply of tomatoes exhibits a downward trend.
Residents, particularly in areas like Kothrud, express their distress as tomatoes and onions, essential kitchen ingredients, witness a sharp price hike. Managing home budgets becomes increasingly challenging with the sudden surge in prices.
Narayangaon market, one of the largest tomato markets in the state, echoes a similar tale. A 20-kg crate, which used to be auctioned for Rs 400-600, now adds to the financial burden of consumers.
Officials at the Narayangaon market attribute this price surge to the adverse impact of rainfall in the first week of November. The tomato plantations were severely affected, causing significant damage to crops at the plucking stage and disrupting the supply chain. Instead of the usual 6,000 crates per day during this season, the market is now receiving less than 4,000 crates per day.
A concerned resident points out that vendors, not limited to tomatoes, are selling all vegetables at elevated prices. The uncertainty of vegetable market dynamics makes it challenging for consumers to anticipate further price increases, adding to the woes of managing household expenses.
