Vegetable and fruits are in scarce quantities in different parts of the city, according to a survey carried out on Thursday and Friday. Some buyers at a vegetable stall were trying to grab onion and potatoes due to very acute shortage, but the vendor did not seem interested in selling at the current prices, anticipating further rise in prices in the next two days following Met office forecast.
Although rise in prices of perishable items is not unusal, it becomes a cause of concern for one when the buyer is confronted with a situation in which the vendor is found reluctant in selling items which are already available with him.
The buyers asked the vegetable sellers about the increase in prices in the next few days. They replied that the prices would nearly double, or rise by Rs 20-30 per kg for any vegetables. Tomatoes were available at Rs 100 per kg due to short supply. Potatoes were at Rs 30-40 per kg, and lady-finger (bhindi) at Rs 40-50 per kg. Other vegetables were hardly available due to the same reason.
Most of the fruits have disappeared from the markets. Even the 'king' of fruits, mango, was not visible in many areas. If they were available at a few places, they were shapeless and in very small number. This is happening in total disregard to the government directives to Price Magistrates to take strict action against profiteers and hoarders to check the rising trend in prices of essential items.
During the survey, stagnant rainwater was a common sight on roads and streets, which could lead to a major outbreak of diseases. A large number of manholes were found without covers, posing a gave threat to pedestrians in particular. Dilapidated houses and under-construction development works are already an additional burden on people. Motorists can't move their vehicles with ease due to bad shape of roads. This factor is also contributing to traffic chaos in various city areas.