Afternoon news

Mumbai, Jul 8: The incessant rains have upset the common man’s household budget. Prices of essential commodities have shot through the roof in the last few days.

Vendors at Crawford Market say vegetables are arriving but the quantity is lesser than usual. Also, a huge chunk of the arrival is spoilt due to the weather, thus adversely impacting vegetable prices.

“Rain damages vegetables as they are transported from Vashi market. Ultimately, we have lesser edible stock to sell. So prices will shoot,” says Amrut Muprekar, a bhajiwala at Crawford Market.

Muprekar is not too happy with the stocks receive. “Already it’s little. The rotten stuff is weaned out and discarded. The quantity reduces and we are forced to sell at higher prices.”

Amita N Shah, a harried housewife, complained of unaffordable veggie prices. Jina Tiwari, another housewife at Muprekar’s stall said, “Instead of complaining, one should learn to adjust. Even I do that and somehow manage with the same budget.”

Mahesh Bhosle who sells coriander leaves says he is bundling up smaller bunches to be sold at Rs.5. “As usual, coriander supply is hit.”

Vegetable Price (Rs/Kg)

Green Peas 60-70
Elephant’s Foot (Suran) 20
Yellow Pumpkin (Bhopla) 12
Potatoes 12
Coriander (Dhania) 150