A recent surprise inspection by a state task force, led by Ravindra Koley, revealed significant price disparities between wholesale and retail markets in areas like Maniktala, Bagmari, and Gurudas Market. Onions were found to be selling at Rs 70-75 per kg, while potatoes were priced at Rs 32-35 per kg.

An official said Koley Market near Sealdah station has recently received new onions at Rs 1,600 per bag. Earlier, the same bags cost the vendors Rs 2,700.

The task force also observed price variations across markets in Kolkata. Sources revealed that Koley Market is offering onions at Rs 50-55 per kg while North Kolkata’s Baranagar Market are recording prices as high as Rs 75-80 per kg.

Koley expressed hope for a price decline in the coming weeks, and said, “By November 30, five lakh metric tonne of potatoes will be released from the cold storages. Within seven days, the prices of vegetables will come down with supply of local crops in the market.” He also urged businessmen to expedite the process to alleviate the price pressure.

The high price of onions is attributed to factors like supply chain disruptions and recent heavy rainfall in onion-producing regions like Nasik in Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh.

Meanwhile, homemakers like Sapna Jhajharia are frustrated by the exorbitant prices. “Cauliflower, usually affordable in winter, is now selling for Rs 40 per piece,” she said.