Onion Prices Reach Rs. 65 in Sambalpur: What You Need to Know

Onions are causing quite a stir in Sambalpur kitchens as prices have skyrocketed to Rs. 65 per kilogram. This sudden surge has left many middle-class families struggling to afford this kitchen staple, making it even more challenging for those living on limited budgets to access. Despite the situation, the administration appears to be taking a passive approach, allowing the issue to worsen.

Concerns have been raised about speculation and hoarding practices by some traders, leading to an artificial shortage of onions in the market. This issue is compounded by questions surrounding the use of cold storage facilities in the district. With six cold storage units capable of storing 28,000 metric tons of produce, there is uncertainty about whether these facilities are benefiting farmers or traders.

Farmers in Sambalpur face challenges in storing their produce due to limited facilities, forcing them to sell at lower prices than they deserve. Additionally, a significant portion of the region’s onion supply comes from other states, giving traders an opportunity to manipulate prices. During times of price surges, cold storage units seem to prioritize the interests of traders over farmers, exacerbating the problem further.

In just a week, onion prices have surged from Rs. 40 to Rs. 65 per kilogram, making it even more challenging for households to incorporate onions into their meals. Reports indicate that there is still a substantial quantity of onions stored in the district’s cold storage units, fueling suspicions of hoarding among traders.

The presence of six cold storage facilities in the district, set up to stabilize prices, has come under scrutiny for potentially promoting black market activities instead. Allegations of traders occupying these facilities during price hikes raise concerns about transparency and regulatory oversight, which are crucial in ensuring fair market practices and price stability for consumers and farmers alike.

The rising onion prices have put consumers under significant financial strain while farmers continue to face losses due to systemic issues. Immediate intervention and stricter regulations are needed to address these challenges and restore fairness and stability in the market.