Md. Tanzim Hossain, Chattogram City

In preparation for Ramadan, authorities in Chattogram have initiated multiple measures to stabilize the market.

The task force, led by Additional Deputy Commissioner (General) Md. Kamruzzaman, is actively overseeing market operations. He stated that monitoring activities will be intensified during Ramadan, with plans to establish affordable markets in urban and rural areas.

The National Consumer Rights Protection Directorate is also playing a proactive role in controlling commodity prices. Mohammad Fayez Ullah, Deputy Director of the Directorate’s Chattogram office, confirmed that several meetings have been held with traders, and special surveillance is underway in the Khatunganj market. He assured that Ramadan-focused initiatives will be further strengthened.

However, rising concerns over dollar price fluctuations are troubling traders. They have reported that banks are charging between BDT 123 and 128 per dollar, depending on the institution. This variance is increasing import costs, directly impacting commodity prices. Md. Mahiuddin, General Secretary of the Chaktai-Khatunganj Wholesalers and General Traders Welfare Association, stated, “The disparity in dollar prices is benefiting some traders while harming others, ultimately affecting the market and consumers alike.”

Traders believe that unless a uniform dollar rate is established, commodity prices could rise further during Ramadan. They urge immediate and coordinated action from the authorities and banks.

Efforts are ongoing to stabilize prices through enhanced monitoring of key markets like Khatunganj and effective communication with traders. However, challenges such as dollar price disparities and supply chain disruptions continue to pose significant hurdles to maintaining market stability.

Consumers fear that without sufficient intervention, essential commodity prices may spiral out of control during Ramadan, making basic necessities increasingly unaffordable.