Tarun Karthick
Sri Vijaya Puram, 04 September 2025
The people of Sri Vijaya Puram are facing steep vegetable prices this monsoon, with rates far higher than in mainland India. A price check carried out on September 4 across five shops in Bhatu Basthi, Prothrapur and Pattergudda shows that the cost of basic vegetables has increased to levels that are difficult for many families to afford.
The survey found that bhindi (okra) was selling for an average of ₹158 per kg in Sri Vijaya Puram, while the average price in mainland markets was ₹54. This shows a difference of ₹104, which is almost triple the mainland rate. Bottle gourd, which is usually one of the cheaper vegetables, was priced at ₹136 per kg here, while the average mainland price was only ₹40. Brinjal was even higher, with local shops charging an average of ₹208 per kg compared to an average price of ₹75 in mainland cities.
Every year during the monsoon, the cost of vegetables in the islands rises sharply. Limited local supply mean that residents here often end up paying much more than people in mainland cities. This year, the gap has become especially large, and the effect is being felt in every household in Sri Vijaya Puram.
For families with limited income, the situation is very difficult. When the price of even basic vegetables crosses ₹150 to ₹200 per kg, many people are forced to cut down on how much they buy. This puts pressure on household budgets and makes it hard for families to maintain a balanced diet.
With nutrition turning expensive, residents say they are finding it challenging to manage their daily needs.
