Bhubaneswar, July 11 (UDN): Onion prices have surged sharply across Odisha over the past two weeks, with retail rates doubling from around ₹20 per kg to nearly ₹40 per kg, adding to the financial burden on households already grappling with rising food costs.
The sudden spike has been attributed to disruptions in the supply chain caused by heavy rainfall in key onion-producing regions of Maharashtra, particularly Nashik, as well as parts of Madhya Pradesh, including Indore. Continuous rain has reportedly damaged standing crops and hampered transportation, resulting in lower arrivals at wholesale markets.
Retail traders said the reduced supply has directly impacted prices in local markets.
“Large-sized onions are now being procured at around ₹35 per kg and sold at ₹40 per kg, while smaller onions are being purchased for about ₹30 per kg and retailed at ₹35 per kg,” said a vegetable trader, adding that the increase is entirely supply-driven.
Consumers, however, expressed concern over the steep rise in prices within such a short span.
“Just a fortnight ago, onions were available for around ₹20 per kg. Now we are paying almost double. The government should take measures to stabilise prices,” said a shopper at a local market.
Addressing the issue, Odisha Food Supplies and Consumer Welfare Minister Krushna Chandra Patra said excessive rainfall in Maharashtra has severely affected onion cultivation, leading to supply shortages across several states, including Odisha.
The minister assured that the state government is closely monitoring the market situation and warned of strict action against traders found indulging in hoarding or black marketing to artificially inflate prices.
Officials said market surveillance has been intensified to prevent unfair trade practices and ensure that consumers are not exploited during the temporary supply crunch.
With the monsoon continuing to affect production and transportation in major growing regions, traders believe onion prices may remain elevated in the short term unless fresh arrivals improve in the coming weeks.
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