Veggie Prices Surge by 60% Shakes Buyers Ahead of Festival Fasts

Shocking prices for vegetable crops have soared by over 60% in less than a month. The worst is yet to come, as shoppers are already confronted with these staggering increases. Across markets, the prices of essential vegetables have skyrocketed, leaving consumers reeling.

The aubergine now selling for Rs 60 per half kilogram, a carrot at no less than Rs 40 per half kilogram, and cucumbers priced at Rs 70 each.

Cabbages have reached a staggering Rs 100 a piece, while a half kilogram of green beans will set you back Rs 125.

Furthermore, tomatoes are now at least Rs 45 for half a kilogram, and bitter gourd is priced at Rs 55 per half kilogram, not to mention calabash at Rs 60.

In some cases, these prices are up to three times higher than they were just a few weeks ago, in mid-January.

It is undeniable that the severe drought and relentless heat have had a detrimental impact on crop production.

However, these harsh climatic conditions do not fully account for the dramatic rise in prices.

The principle of supply and demand plays a significant role here.

In recent days, Tamil communities have begun their traditional ten-day fast in anticipation of the upcoming Cavadee festival, which falls on Tuesday, 11th February.

During this period, devotees abstain from consuming any animal products, opting instead for vegetarian meals.

But the fasting doesn’t stop there; shortly after Cavadee, the Hindu festival of Maha Shivaratree, set for Wednesday, 26th February, will see more devotees fasting once again, further spiking the demand for plant-based foods.

For context, here’s a brief list of current prices for various crops at local outlets:

• Aubergine (Bringelle): Rs 60 for half a kilogram
• Carrot (Carotte): Rs 40 for half a kilogram
• Cucumber (Concombre): Rs 70 per piece
• Savoy Cabbage (Chou) ( Large one) : Rs 100 per piece
• Cresson (Cress) : Rs 35 per bunch
• Calabash (Calebasse): Rs 60 for half a kilogram
• Pumpkin (Giraumon): Rs 30 for half a kilogram
• Green Bean (Haricot vert) : Rs 125 for half a kilogram
• Bittergourd (Margoze) : Rs 55 for half a kilogram
• Tomato (Pomme d’amour): Rs 45 for half a kilogram
• Voème Beans: Rs 100 for half a kilogram

As a result, consumers will have to come to terms with the reality of an ongoing rise in living costs. Compounding this crisis is the country’s vulnerability to adverse weather, with the constant threat of cyclones and torrential rains that could wreak havoc on crops at any moment, potentially sending prices even higher still.

Source: Le Mauricien