DHUBRI: As the holy month of Ramadan started, the demand for fruits in Dhubri and its surrounding markets has skyrocketed, resulting in a significant price hike, anticipating high demands of watermelons and other fruits.
According to traders, the wholesale price of watermelons stands at Rs 30 per kg, while retail prices range between Rs 60 and 70 per kg. The surge in demand has driven up fruit prices by 50%–60%, leaving consumers struggling to afford essential items for Iftar.
The price hike has impacted all varieties of fruits, including apples, grapes, watermelons, bananas, sweet limes, pomegranates, kinnow, etc. Current market rates reveal that sweet lime (Mausambi) costs around Rs 230-250 per kg, watermelon Rs 60-70 per kg, pomegranate Rs 220-260 per kg, banana Rs 100 per kg, chiku (Sapota) Rs 80-120 per kg, cashew nuts Rs 1000-1200 per kg, grapes Rs 120-200 per kg, etc.
Despite the drastic price increases, neither the local administration nor the food supply department in Dhubri has intervened. One consumer expressed frustration over the price surge, stating, “The month of Ramadan comes once a year, and we need fruits for Iftar.” Consumers are urging authorities to take action to regulate prices and prevent unfair inflation during this crucial period.
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