Onion Prices Surge to Rs. 65 in Sambalpur
Onion Prices Soar, Sparking Concerns in Sambalpur
The price of onions in Sambalpur has surged to Rs. 65 per kilogram, causing distress for many middle-class families. The sudden increase has made it challenging for households to afford this kitchen staple, pushing it out of reach for those already struggling. Despite the steep rise, authorities have yet to take action, allowing the situation to worsen.
Suspicions of Market Manipulation
There are suspicions that unscrupulous traders are hoarding onions to create an artificial shortage, driving up prices. This practice has raised alarm bells, especially as it appears that cold storage facilities in the district may be contributing to the issue. Sambalpur is home to six cold storage units with a total capacity of 28,000 metric tons, but questions linger about whether these facilities are storing farmers’ produce or that of traders.
Challenges for Local Farmers
Farmers in Sambalpur face challenges in storing their produce due to limited facilities, often leading them to sell at lower prices. Additionally, a substantial portion of the onion supply in the region comes from other states, giving traders an opportunity to manipulate prices by controlling stock levels. During times of price hikes, cold storage units seem to benefit traders more than farmers, who bear the brunt of the situation.
Rapid Price Escalation
In just one week, onion prices in Sambalpur shot up from Rs. 40 to Rs. 65 per kilogram, exacerbating the struggle for both low-income families and the middle class. Despite reports indicating that there is still a significant quantity of onions stored in the district’s cold storage facilities, concerns about hoarding persist.
Oversight of Cold Storage Facilities
The district’s six cold storage units, located in different areas, primarily store potatoes and onions. However, allegations suggest that during price surges, these facilities are occupied more by traders than by farmers. This lack of transparency and oversight has allowed for black market activities to flourish, burdening consumers while benefiting a select group of traders.
Addressing the Crisis
The rising onion prices have had a significant impact on consumers and farmers, highlighting systemic issues that need immediate attention. To ensure fair practices and price stability in the market, authorities must intervene and implement stricter regulations. It is essential to uphold transparency and accountability to prevent further exploitation of the market and safeguard the interests of both producers and consumers.
