Kollam, Kerala: Vegetable prices have risen sharply across Kerala over the past two weeks, putting a strain on household budgets as the cost of many staples has more than doubled.

Several varieties that previously sold for ₹20–₹30 per kg are now priced around ₹80 per kg, according to local market reports from Kollam.

The price of snake gourd has climbed from ₹40 to ₹80 per kg within a fortnight, while brinjal has risen from ₹30 to ₹80–₹85. Cucumber prices have increased from ₹25 to ₹40, and the wholesale rate of flat beans has touched ₹60.

After dipping during the Onam season, coconut prices have also rebounded to ₹80–₹84 per kg. Meanwhile, essential kitchen staples such as onions, tomatoes, and potatoes have each seen a ₹10 rise in just two weeks.

Traders attribute the steep hike to crop damage caused by continuous rainfall and the resulting shortage of fresh produce. Most vegetables reaching Kerala are sourced from Tirunelveli, Alangulam, Pavoorchatram, and Surandai Palayam in Tamil Nadu, regions where heavy rain over the past two weeks has caused widespread agricultural losses.

Farmers shifted towards new crops such as paddy, maize, and peanuts. As a result, vegetable cultivation has declined, worsening supply shortages. At present, only limited local produce, including okra and flat beans, is available from interior regions.

Vegetable kits are now being sold for ₹100–₹150. While the prices of most vegetables have surged, lemons, small onions, and green chillies have remained largely stable. However, with reduced supply from outside the state, the local trade sector is facing mounting pressure.

Current price range (Previous rate in brackets)

Onion: ₹30–₹35 (₹25)

Potato: ₹45 (₹40)

Tomato: ₹40 (₹30)

Okra: ₹40–₹50 (₹30)

Flat beans: ₹60 (₹30)

Beans: ₹120 (₹80)

Carrot: ₹90–₹100 (₹70)

Snake gourd: ₹80 (₹40)

Cucumber: ₹40 (₹25)

Brinjal: ₹80–₹85 (₹30)

Drumstick: ₹70–₹80 (₹40)

(Based on Wednesday’s market rates in Kollam city. Source: Kerala Vegetable Merchants Association)