Bhubaneswar, (Reporterspen), Aug 8: Amid a state-wide shortage and high prices of potatoes, the Odisha government announced on Thursday that the crisis is expected to ease soon with additional shipments on the way.
Food Supplies and Consumer Welfare Minister Krushna Chandra Patra informed reporters that the situation will improve within days as more potato consignments are set to arrive from West Bengal and Uttar Pradesh.
Patra assured that the influx of potatoes from these states would address the current shortage and help lower prices. Traders have been instructed to prepare for the incoming supplies and keep prices reasonable.
On Thursday, five trucks carrying potatoes arrived at the Aiginia godown in Bhubaneswar, which is anticipated to significantly alleviate the crisis.
Minister Patra acknowledged that Odisha’s potato production falls short of demand, with local output at around three lakh quintals compared to a demand of 13 lakh quintals. To address this, the government is taking steps to enhance potato production in the state, aiming for self-sufficiency within the next 1-2 years by boosting local output.
