Consumers suffer as daily essential prices soar across capital

Consumers across Dhaka are facing steep price hikes on essential commodities with the start of the holy month of Ramadan, putting additional pressure on household budgets.

Market surveys indicate significant increases in prices for lemons, eggplants, cucumbers, onions, tomatoes, green chilies, dates, broiler chicken, and various types of fish.

Traders say the surge is due to heightened demand and limited supply at the beginning of Ramadan. “Demand during Ramadan far exceeds available supply, which drives prices upward,” said a local vendor.

Consumers, however, complain that some sellers are exploiting the situation by charging excessive prices. Vendors expect prices to stabilize within a week as shopping patterns normalize and many families and students travel to their villages for Eid holidays.

Vegetables lead price surge

Prices of lemons, cucumbers, and eggplants have jumped two to five times compared to pre-Ramadan levels. Lemons that were previously sold at Tk 20–30 per unit are now priced at Tk 100–120. Eggplants, which cost Tk 60–80 per kg, are now sold at Tk 100–120 per kg, while cucumbers have risen from Tk 40–50 per kg to Tk 80–100 per kg.

Market vendor Saidul Islam said, “The demand for these vegetables during Ramadan is exceptionally high, especially in remote areas. Wholesale prices have increased, forcing retailers to charge an extra Tk 10–20 per kg.”

Onion prices have climbed to Tk 60–65 per kg, and green chilies are being sold at Tk 200 per kg, continuing a trend that began during election-related transport disruptions.

Broiler chicken is priced at Tk 190–220 per kg, while Sonali chicken has slightly eased to Tk 300–320 per kg.

Shoppers are hopeful that stronger monitoring by authorities and improved supply chain management will help stabilize prices and reduce consumer hardship during the month of Ramadan.

NH/MHK