Ramdhan: Prices of essentials sky-rocket in Kashmir

SRINAGAR — The skyrocketing prices of daily use commodities including fuels, fruits, milk, meat and vegetables have irked consumers who have expressed anguish over the failure of the administration to control price-hike in the valley.

A market survey conducted by this scribe here amid restrictions on Friday revealed that one dozen bananas and one kilogram melon are being sold at Rs 100-120 and Rs 120-150 in city markets whereas one kilogram of grapes is being sold at Rs 220, which are beyond the purchasing power of middle class.

Also, cooking gas consumers were shocked to see the sudden increase in the price of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) cylinders.

Locals in Kashmir said with the latest hike in the fuel prices, they were finding it difficult to make ends meet and it would put more burden on their monthly household budget.

Sameer Ahmad, a resident of Old City in Srinagar, said that earlier the spike in prices of essential commodities and now the rise in the cost of gas made his kitchen budget go awry. “The government should curb the rise in prices of everyday items,” he said.

While the price of mustard oil was Rs 110 to 120 per kg last year, the price is now Rs 185 to 195 per kg. Refined oil is now being sold for Rs 150 to 165.

“It is unfortunate that the administration has failed to curb prices and act against the hoarders and black marketers. The state government should put in place strict measures to check the prices of essentials as some elements take advantage of the government’s slumber,” Sameer said.

Another city resident, Ghulam Nabi, said, “Fuel is an essential commodity and hike in their prices affects the monthly budget of any income group. Without a doubt, single-earning hand families with limited income will be the most affected. The government seems to have failed to deliver its promise of easing the problems of people.”

The consumers and people have requested Commissioners, Deputy Commissioners and other senior officials of the district administrations to make a close check on the price of daily commodities and take strict action against profiteers and hoarders, imperative for the provision of all essential items to consumers at affordable rates.