Vegetable prices have surged sharply in markets across Gaibandha district, allegedly citing heavy rainfall, rising river water levels, and the inundation of vegetable fields in various areas.
Vegetables that were once available for Tk 15 to Tk 30 per kilogram are now being sold at five to six times higher prices, causing severe hardship for low- and middle-income families.
Almost all seven upazilas of Gaibandha are surrounded by rivers. Due to the rising water levels of the Teesta, Brahmaputra, Ghaghat, Karatoa, and other rivers, along with continuous rainfall, many low-lying areas of the district have been flooded. As a result, vegetable fields in different locations have been damaged, while some have been completely destroyed. According to the Department of Agricultural Extension, recent heavy rainfall has caused waterlogging on approximately 310 hectares of vegetable farmland in the district.
The largest vegetable-producing areas in the district include Dhaperhat in Sadullapur Upazila and Kishorgari and surrounding villages in Palashbari Upazila. However, many farmers in these regions have suffered losses during the current monsoon season. Fears of reduced production have also led to a decline in market supply.
A recent visit to Lakshmipur, Haripur, Kamarjani, Bamondanga, Dhopadanga, Naldanga, Katgara, Panchpir, and Mirganj markets, as well as other marketplaces across the district, revealed abnormal increases in the prices of almost all vegetables.
Consumers Ibrahim Ali and Yakub Ali said that only a few weeks ago pointed gourd was selling for Tk 15–20 per kilogram, eggplant for Tk 25–30, taro for Tk 30–35, yardlong beans for Tk 15–30, and ridge gourd for Tk 25–26. At present, the prices of the same vegetables have increased several times, with many varieties being sold at Tk 80 to Tk 120 per kilogram.
Vendors claim that excessive rainfall and flooding have damaged many vegetable fields, resulting in lower market supply and higher prices. However, consumers allege that prices have been increased far beyond the actual extent of crop losses.
Housewife Rokshana Begum said, "Previously, Tk 200 was enough to buy vegetables for several days. Now the same amount is barely sufficient for a single day's shopping. Managing household expenses has become extremely difficult."
Agriculture-related officials noted that heavy rainfall and waterlogging during the monsoon season have disrupted vegetable production, which has directly affected market prices. Riverine and char areas of Gaibandha experience vegetable crop losses almost every year due to floods and waterlogging.
Concerned citizens have called for stronger market monitoring and effective measures to prevent unreasonable price hikes. They warned that unless action is taken, the continued rise in vegetable prices will further increase the suffering of ordinary people.
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