Sylhet, June 29 (V7N) — The prices of rice and vegetables have surged sharply across Sylhet following a brief period of post-Eid stability, causing renewed concern among consumers. After Eid-ul-Adha, prices of daily essentials had remained relatively steady, but over the past week, retail markets have reported significant increases—particularly in staple food items.

Local markets such as Bandar Bazar, Laldighirpar, Shibganj, Amberkhana, Kadamtali, and Varthkhola witnessed a noticeable hike in rice prices. Retailers say rice prices have gone up by Tk 2 to Tk 8 per kilogram depending on the variety. According to traders, the rise is being observed nationwide, not just in Sylhet. They allege that rice mill owners are driving up prices to capitalize on renewed consumer demand following the Eid holiday.

Wholesale prices for a 50-kg sack of rice reportedly rose by Tk 250 last week. This week, the price has surged by an additional Tk 150 per sack, bringing the total post-Eid increase to as much as Tk 400 in some cases. As a result, current retail prices range from Tk 58 to Tk 65 per kg for coarse varieties like BR-28 and Parija, Tk 74 to Tk 80 for Jeerashail, Tk 76 to Tk 84 for Miniket, and Tk 70 to Tk 76 for Kataribhog rice.

Alongside rice, vegetable prices have also climbed considerably over the past two days. Sellers across multiple markets confirmed that most vegetables are now selling for Tk 10 to Tk 20 more per kilogram compared to last week. In Sobhanighat Market, vendors attributed the price hike to disruptions in supply and increased transportation costs. Yardlong beans, spiny gourd, and pointed gourd are now selling for Tk 80 to Tk 100 per kg. Other vegetables such as papaya, potol, and okra are priced between Tk 50 and Tk 60, while ridge gourd and snake gourd are selling for Tk 60 to Tk 80 per kg. Prices at roadside vendors are slightly lower, although quality may vary.

The sudden escalation in prices has unsettled many shoppers, particularly middle- and lower-income families already stretched from Eid-related expenses. “I came to the market expecting regular prices, but everything is more expensive. It’s becoming harder to buy even basic vegetables,” said a concerned buyer at Bandar Bazar.

Though the Department of Agricultural Marketing and local authorities have not yet issued formal responses, many hope that market conditions will stabilize in the coming weeks. Traders, however, warn that further increases may occur if transportation and fuel costs continue to rise.

As the cost of living tightens once again, the people of Sylhet are calling for timely intervention to curb unnecessary price inflation and protect the interests of consumers.

END/MHS/SMA/