It is disappointing to note that extortionists and unholy nexus of organised syndicates are manipulating the price of winter vegetables in many ways during this peak season. When unscrupulous businesspeople are raising the prices of vegetables, reckless extortion through the supply chain is making essentials dearer. What is more disconcerting is that everything is happening under the very nose of the authorities concerned and there is no one to monitor such criminal activities properly.
Farmers are getting very little for their produces while extortionists and dishonest traders are taking away the lion’s share of the commodity price. Vegetable traders allege that over 50 percent of the transportation costs apparently go to the pockets of extortionists.
There is no alternative to expose how
the organised syndicates are trying to manipulate
the market
On the other hand, the syndicate created by the businessmen is controlling the markets in such a way which results in increased prices. Growers are selling green chilly to the local traders at Tk 20 per kg while this spice is being sold at Tk 80 in capital Dhaka, other metropolitan cities and district towns. Besides, one kg bean is being sold at Tk 18 and per piece cauliflower at Tk 15 at the farmers’ fields across the country.And these vegetables are being sold at Tk 50 and Tk 40-Tk 50 in capital Dhaka respectively. Also, most of the winter vegetables such as cucumber, pumpkin, radish, tomato, brinjal, carrot and lady’s finger are selling at high rate in the city’s kitchen markets.
There is no plausible reason behind the price hike of vegetables as there is adequate supply of products. The situation demands a well-planned strategy to be undertaken against extortionists. We must ensure that farmers get fair prices for their produces. The government must put forth all-out efforts to keep prices of vegetables and essentials stable during the peak season.
Extortion is going on through joint collaboration of hoodlums, police and transport leaders. There is no alternative to expose how the organised syndicates are trying to manipulate the market and increase the prices and hoodlums are taking tolls from the vegetables laden trucks.
The government should take necessary steps to ensure fair prices of winter vegetables. The law enforcers will have to be active in the field to ensure that prices of essentials remain stable. We hope the prices of vegetables will come down soon.