Md Samrat Talukdar, Kalia (Narail)

The vegetable market in Kalia, Narail, remains stable ahead of the holy month of Ramadan. Usually, during this time of the year, the demand for vegetables and other essential goods increases significantly, leading to price hikes. However, this year, the vegetable market has not experienced such an impact. Additionally, the prices of eggs and sugar have dropped, providing relief to consumers.

During a visit to Kalia Bazaar on Friday (Feb 28), it was observed that the prices of various vegetables and essential items remain at a reasonable level. Potatoes are being sold at Tk 20 to Tk 25 per kg depending on quality and variety, onions at Tk 40 to Tk 45 per kg, eggplant at Tk 50 per kg, green chilies at Tk 40 per kg, beans at Tk 30 to Tk 40 per kg, bitter gourd at Tk 100 per kg, pointed gourd at Tk 140 per kg, tomatoes at Tk 10 per kg, papaya at Tk 25 per kg, cauliflower at Tk 20 per kg, carrots at Tk 25 per kg, cucumbers at Tk 40 per kg, ginger at Tk 120 per kg, okra at Tk 120 per kg, green peas at Tk 60 per kg, and sweet pumpkin at Tk 40 to Tk 50 per kg.

Additionally, the price of farm eggs remains affordable, with a dozen eggs selling at Tk 135-140. Broiler chicken is being sold at Tk 190 to Tk 200 per kg, while Sonali chicken is priced at Tk 300 to Tk 320 per kg.

Chickpeas are available at Tk 105 to Tk 115 per kg, khesari dal at Tk 110 to Tk 120 per kg, and lentils at Tk 120 to Tk 130 per kg. However, the supply of bottled soybean oil has not yet normalized, with loose soybean oil being sold at Tk 190 to Tk 200 per kg.

Kalia Bazaar vegetable trader Md. Abdullah Sheikh stated that this year, the vegetable prices are at a reasonable level compared to the past few years. Typically, during Ramadan, the demand for onions, green chilies, eggplants, and cucumbers rises, leading to price increases. However, due to adequate supply this year, there is no concern over price hikes, allowing people to shop comfortably for Ramadan.

Dr. Moloy Biswas, a consumer at the market, said, "There is an ample supply of vegetables. However, the shortage of soybean oil persists. Apart from soybean oil, the prices of other Ramadan essentials remain stable."

Overall, the vegetable market in Kalia, Narail, is in a favorable condition ahead of Ramadan. With sufficient supply, prices remain at a reasonable level, which is good news for consumers.