At the start of Ramadan, retail prices of daily essentials in Phulbari, Dinajpur have surged, causing hardship for ordinary buyers.
A market survey shows that broiler chicken prices have jumped by 50 taka per kg, rising from 170 taka to 220–230 taka. Golden chicken, previously 320 taka, now sells for 350 taka.
Beef prices have increased from 650 taka to 700 taka per kg, while mutton has risen sharply from 1,000 taka to 1,200 taka.
Vegetable prices have also surged. Most vegetables now cost over 100 taka per kg, except potatoes and papaya. Brinjal has increased from 25–30 taka to 40–60 taka, cucumber from 30 taka to 40–50 taka, and green chili from 60 taka to 80 taka.
Pulse prices, essential for Ramadan, have risen as well. Regular lentils now cost 140–150 taka (up from 135), broad-grain lentils 120 taka (up from 90), and anchor lentils 100–110 taka. Prices of flour, soybean oil, and onions have also climbed.
In the date market, prices have surged by 100–300 taka per kg. Dabas dates increased from 490–500 taka to 550–570 taka, while Kalmi, Sukkari, Mabroom, Maryam, and Medjool dates also rose sharply.
Traders say wholesale price hikes are driving the retail increase. Consumers complain that retailers are taking advantage of high Ramadan demand to earn extra profits.
Phulbari Assistant Commissioner (Land) and Municipal Administrator Samiul Islam warned, “Legal action will be taken if prices are raised unnecessarily.”
Such early-Ramadan price surges are increasing anxiety and dissatisfaction among residents.
Comment
