Bhubaneswar, (Reporterspen), July 27: A day after a dramatic spike in potato prices prompted the Odisha government to crack down on hoarders, potato-laden trucks from West Bengal arrived at the Aiginia wholesale market in Bhubaneswar.
However, these 10-12 trucks are reported to have entered the state capital and Balasore via illegal routes. A trader from Pipili informed a local news channel that the potato supply is gradually improving, with trucks using village roads and operating at night. The price surge has been attributed to consumer hoarding, with many purchasing more potatoes than needed due to fears of shortages.
Despite government directives capping retail prices at Rs 32 per kg, potato prices in Odisha remain high, ranging from Rs 45-60 per kg. Retailers claim they are forced to sell at Rs 50-55 per kg because they purchase sacks from wholesalers at Rs 2,200. Wholesalers argue that potatoes are not being sold on the black market and anticipate improvements once legal truck shipments increase. One wholesaler mentioned buying sacks at Rs 1,590 and selling at Rs 1,600, suggesting retailers should not charge more than Rs 40 per kg.
Following an emergency meeting, Food Supplies and Consumer Welfare Minister Krushna Chandra Patra assured that the issue would be resolved within a day or two. “We have been assured by West Bengal officials that potato truck movements will be streamlined shortly. We are also considering procurement from the UP government if necessary,” he told reporters.
