Kitchen markets in Khulna metropolitan area have been unstable for the past one week as prices of essential commodities have gone up several times, causing immense suffering for lower-middle income groups.  

Again, the same products are being sold at varying prices across different markets, making it especially challenging for the poor.  

Visiting several markets in Khulna including Daulatpur, Gollamari, Khalishpur, Notun Bazar, Sandhya Bazar, Boyra Bazar, Mistiri Para Bazar and Banorgati Bazar, it was found that the price of green vegetables has remained relatively low while fish prices have shot up.

The prices of onions, potatoes, garlic, ginger, and other spices have also gone up. Compared to last week, the price of rice has gone up by Tk 4 to 5 per kilogram (Kg). Sugar and soybean oil are being sold at the previous rates.

However, prices of meat dropped compared to last week. Now per kilogram beef costs Tk 650, a fall by Tk 100 compared to the past week.

Mutton costs Tk 950 per kilogram. The prices of various types of chicken and duck have dropped by Tk 50 per kilogram.

The prices of lentils and sugar are also rising sharply.

Nafisa Begum, a consumer at Sandhya Bazar, complained abouy the inconsistent prices of vegetables and informed that fish is costlier than meat.

Rabiul, a private college teacher, expressed concern over the shortage of hilsa fish during its peak season. The price of hilsa fish ranges from Tk 1,300 to 2,500 per kilogram, making it unaffordable for common people.

Another shopper Beauty Akhtar said they can’t think of buying fish and meat due to high prices.

Considering the situation, all underscored the need for market monitoring to control prices.