Bhubaneswar, (Reporterspen), Aug 21: Potato prices in Odisha are expected to decrease and supply levels to normalize following West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s approval for the export of up to 2 lakh tonnes of potatoes to other states within a week.
The approval came after potato traders in Bengal ended their strike on Tuesday and pledged to facilitate smooth unloading from cold storages across the state. The decision was made in a review meeting at the state secretariat, Nabanna, with various stakeholders in attendance.
Agriculture Marketing Minister Becharam Manna stated, “The chief minister has agreed to permit the export of up to 2 lakh metric tonnes of potatoes per week—1 lakh metric tonnes from North Bengal and another 1 lakh from South Bengal. However, neighboring states must first place their demand.”
Mamata Banerjee is expected to reassess the situation in seven days and issue further instructions if necessary.
The West Bengal government had previously restricted potato exports in June due to soaring prices, prompting a five-day strike by the West Bengal Pragatishil Alu Byabsayee Samiti (WBPABS). The group resumed their strike on Monday, alleging police interference despite assurances given in an August 8 meeting.
