Rajshahi Correspondent:

Due to heavy rainfall across the country, the price of green chili in Rajshahi has surged dramatically, causing concern among consumers. Over the past week, the cost of green chili has jumped from Tk 100–120 per kilogram to Tk 300–360, depending on quality.

Sellers attribute this sharp increase to a significant drop in supply caused by continuous rains.

A recent market visit in Rajshahi revealed the severe scarcity of green chili. While dried red chili is still available at lower prices, fresh green chili is now being sold at Tk 360 per kilogram.

Farmer Monir Hossain from Parila village explained that flooding in his chili fields has made harvesting difficult. He managed to collect a small quantity for sale but fears further rains will ruin the crop, as some plants have already begun to rot.

Vendors also reported a general price hike across other vegetables and fish.

Eggplant, cucumber, tomato, ivy gourd and other vegetables have crossed Tk 100 per kilogram mark.

Fish and poultry prices have risen as well, with local fish like hilsa reaching up to Tk 3,000 per kilogram. The price of Sonali chicken increased by Tk 20 per kilogram within a week, now selling at Tk 300.

However, broiler chicken prices remain stable at Tk 160–170 per kilogram.

The rainy season has disrupted normal production and supply, pushing prices higher.

Retailers say that paddy has moved from farmers directly to mill owners, who are raising rice prices at will. As a result, popular rice brands such as Monjur, Rashid and Sagar are now selling between Tk 75 and 80 per kilogram, with premium brands even higher at Tk 85.

Consumers in Rajshahi are thus grappling with rising food costs across the board, with little relief in sight as rains continue to impact agricultural output and market supply.