Vegetable prices have surged to unprecedented levels, with reports from the Narahenpita Economic Center revealing prices exceeding 800 rupees per kilogram for various varieties including key vegetables such as carrots, eggplant, cabbage, tomatoes, and green chilies commanding high prices.
– Carrots: 1000 rupees per kilogram
– Eggplant, Cabbage, Tomato: 900 rupees per kilogram
– Green Chilies: 1800 rupees per kilogram
– Okra: 800 rupees per kilogram
– Some vegetables like gray banana below 480 rupees per kilogram
Wholesalers and retailers attribute the surge to adverse weather conditions affecting key cultivation areas such as Embilipitiya, Nuwara Eliya, and Puttalam. These regions, major vegetable suppliers, have faced challenges due to unfavorable weather, leading to a decline in proper vegetable production. Traders cite a nearly 40 percent increase in transport costs due to rising fuel prices as an additional factor.
The Department of Agriculture anticipates a potential turnaround in six weeks, with a distribution plan for vegetable plants to farmers aimed at boosting production and stabilizing prices.
