Photo : Messenger
For months, residents of the border areas in Naikhongchhari of Bandarban have been grappling with the escalating prices of essential goods, including vegetables, fish, and meat. A significant concern among the populace is the alleged smuggling of these goods across the border to Myanmar, which has led to a sharp increase in prices for items such as vegetables, rice, and lentils in local markets.
A recent survey of various markets, including the main market of Naikhongchhari Upazila, Chakdhala market, Baishari market, Tumbru market, Ramu's Gorjania market, and Eidgarh market, revealed that the cost of green chili has remained consistently high, selling for 200 Taka per kg for almost a year. Cucumbers have not been available for less than 60 Taka per kg in the last 15 days, and tomatoes have suddenly spiked to 150 Taka per kg. Other vegetables are also being sold at around 70-80 Taka per kg, causing a significant strain on consumers' budgets.
The situation is not limited to vegetables; a dozen eggs are being sold for over 160 Taka, and in the fish market, no fish is available for less than Tk 300 per kg. Small shrimp are priced at Tk 800 per kg, while Rohu fish, a popular choice among the middle class, is sold for Tk 250-400 per kg depending on size and quality. Tilapia is priced between Tk 200-250 per kg.
The rise in green chili prices during the sacrificial season is a recurring issue. Last year, prices reached around Tk 500 per kg during Eid, only to drop to Tk 200 due to imports. However, despite several weeks of high prices this year, no decision to import has been made yet. Traders attribute the high prices to low supply during Eid, increased supply costs due to rain, and other factors.
The price of rice has also increased by 5 Taka per kg, with medium-quality rice now selling for 60-70 Taka per kg, adding to the financial distress of ordinary people.
Naikhongchhari Upazila Awami League President Abu Taher expressed concern, stating, "Vegetables have never been this expensive in a country that grows vegetables." He highlighted the issue of smuggling, claiming that goods are no longer sold to local stores but directly to smugglers' representatives, causing worry among consumers.
Naikhongchhari Freedom Fighter Commander Raja Mia was equally astonished by the extent of food smuggling to Myanmar and demanded immediate action to halt the practice.
Naikhongchhari Upazila Ghumdhum Union Parishad Chairman Jahangir Aziz emphasized the artificial crisis created by the smuggling of goods to Myanmar, which is driving up prices continuously.
As the situation persists, local leaders and residents are calling for measures to curb smuggling and stabilize prices in the border markets to ensure the affordability of essential goods for the local population.
Messenger/Fameema
