Bumper yield keeps veggie prices low but biting cold hits some crops
Times of India | 10 January 2026
Kolkata: With bumper local harvest amid favourable weather, markets across Kolkata and adjoining areas are brimming with fresh winter vegetables at affordable prices, bringing relief to consumers from rising food costs elsewhere. In retail markets, most vegetables are being sold at Rs 30 to Rs 40 per kg, which is around 10% to 15% lower than prices a year ago.
Favourable weather conditions proved vital for bumper production, said Kamal Dey, president of Bengal Vendors' Association.
Belts such as Bhangar, Baruipur and Canning reported higher yields, significantly boosting supply in city markets.
Staples of the winter basket—cauliflower, cabbage, beans, carrots, spinach and other leafy greens—are among the cheapest picks this season. Broccoli, once considered a premium vegetable, is also selling at markedly lower rate than last year. A wholesaler at Koley Market, the city's major vegetable hub, said abundant local sourcing kept prices in check. "Local produce usually becomes cheaper at this time," noted Gopal Sonkar.
Consumers, on the whole, are pleased. "Earlier, buying vegetables felt like a strain on the monthly budget. Now I can fill my bag with cauliflower, cabbage and carrots without worrying," said homemaker Ananya Ghosh of Chetla, while shopping at a neighbourhood market in south Kolkata. Vendors say brisk sales reflect the upbeat mood.
According to West Bengal Vendor Association, the broader picture remains positive. Higher production, improved logistics and stronger neighbourhood sourcing ensured that most winter vegetables stayed within reach of middle-class households.
But not all vegetables followed the downward trend, when it comes to the price. A few varieties arriving from Bengaluru, especially tomatoes, remain the notable exception. The popular Bengaluru tomato continues to sell at Rs 70 to Rs 80 per kg despite the entry of Purulia's local crop. Traders attribute this to quality issues. Excessive cold affected the colouring and firmness of district tomatoes, dampening demand. Similar weather-related problems hit a few other crops as well.
"Flowers of lady's finger and pointed gourd are dropping before fruiting, which is why prices of these two vegetables are high," said cultivator, Abed Ali Sheikh from Bhangar.