Kochi: Vegetable prices are soaring in the state. While ginger prices, which hovered around Rs 230 in June last week, soared to Rs 260 - 300, the price of shallots have doubled to Rs 200 per kilogram. Garlic price has also marginally increased and costs nearly Rs 200 per kilogram. 

On the other hand, tomato prices, which have been plummeting for the past few weeks, dropped from Rs 140 to Rs 120. Whereas, the prices of green chillies continue to remain at Rs 100 per kilogram. 

Apparently, reduction in vegetable supply due to incessant rains in the northern states, including Maharashtra, led to the current price hike. In addition, quick rotting of shallots due to heavy rains added to the hike. 

Meanwhile, prices of onions and potatoes remain the same at Rs 22 -26 and Rs 26 - 35 per kilogram respectively. The price of drumsticks have dropped to Rs 42 - 55 from the earlier Rs 60. Also, veggies such as beetroot, carrot, okra (ladies finger) cost around Rs 60 nowadays. 

Price hike for cumin seeds too 

The wholesale price of fennel seeds, which hovered around Rs 550 - 600 in the market, surged to Rs 640 - 650. In retail stores, it will cost up to Rs 900 per kilogram. 

The price of cumin seeds have increased to Rs 350 per kilogram in three weeks, with the price going up to Rs 400 in retail stores.