Sylhet, Sep 30 (V7N) – The prices of essential commodities have been on a constant upward trend in Sylhet, leaving low-income residents struggling to cope. Despite hopes for a reprieve following the change in government, the cost of daily necessities like vegetables, chicken, onions, and potatoes continues to rise, putting further pressure on household budgets.

A market survey conducted on Monday revealed that despite government efforts, the prices of staples such as potatoes and onions have remained high, while the cost of vegetables and chicken has surged even more. Retailers and wholesalers reported heightened volatility in the markets.

Broiler and golden chicken prices have risen sharply. A few weeks ago, broiler chicken was priced at Tk 170–180 per kg, but this has now increased to Tk 190–200. Golden chicken, which was Tk 260–270 last week, is now selling at Tk 270–280 per kg. Prices for onions and potatoes, which have been on the rise for months, currently stand at Tk 110–120 per kg for onions and Tk 60 for potatoes.

The National Board of Revenue (NBR) recently reduced import duties to address the price increase, lowering the 25% import duty on potatoes to 15% and eliminating the regulatory duties on both potatoes and onions. However, this measure has had little impact on the market, as prices remain unchanged.

The cost of vegetables has also spiked, with prices increasing by Tk 10–20 per kg compared to last week. Vendors attribute this to reduced supply due to recent continuous rainfall. Vegetables like patol are being sold at Tk 60–70 per kg, while other common varieties such as bitter gourd, brinjal, and barbati are now priced between Tk 100 and Tk 120 per kg. Raw chilies have become particularly expensive, costing Tk 250–300 per kg, while early winter beans and cauliflower have also seen price hikes.

Fish prices have remained mostly stable, with roe, tilapia, and pangas selling at their previous rates. However, the price of hilsa fish has surged, reaching Tk 1,600–1,700 per kg, marking an increase of Tk 150–200 from previous levels.

Consumers have expressed growing frustration, with many stating that prices for essential goods are becoming unaffordable. A local shopper commented, "With prices higher than ever, it's becoming impossible to manage. The lower and middle classes are suffering the most."

A retail grocer in Bandar Bazar echoed these sentiments, noting that while there is no shortage of products, prices remain stubbornly high. He added, "Nobody seems to know why prices aren't dropping, except the big wholesalers."

With the cost of living continuing to rise, Sylhet's residents, particularly those in lower-income brackets, are calling for urgent action to stabilize prices and provide relief from this ongoing crisis.

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