In a recent development, the price of potatoes in Jalpaiguri witnessed a significant decline after a thorough inspection conducted by governement officials at the Dinbazar wholesale market in the town.
The West Bengal state governments had expressed displeasure over the escalating prices of vegetables, particularly potatoes, throughout the region. In response, officials were directed to release potatoes from cold storage facilities to alleviate the price surge.
Traders in Jalpaiguri had initially purchased potatoes at Rs 23 per kg from cold storage units, but the retail prices surged to Rs 35 per kg, leading to concerns among residents. However, following news of the governement official intervention, prices promptly fell.
Post-inspection, potatoes were being sold at Rs 30 per kg, providing relief to consumers in the region. Additionally, officials from the agro-marketing department seized 650kg of potatoes from a trader’s godown due to a lack of documentation regarding the purchase.
The district boasts 26 cold stores with a combined capacity of storing 3.90 metric tons. This year, potato production witnessed a 10% decline, impacting growers and traders who have faced significant losses in recent years.
As per sources, approximately 25% of the stored potatoes have already left the facilities, with a portion being supplied to other states. The surge in retail prices locally prompted the administration to take decisive actions to stabilize the market and protect consumers from undue price hikes.
