Published: 11:54 AM, 17 September 2026
Prices of essential commodities soar in Khulna
Prices of essential commodities including vegetables, poultry and eggs have surged sharply in Khulna's kitchen markets, putting pressure on low- and middle-income people.
Vendors said the main reasons behind this are disruptions in agricultural production and reduced supplies across various districts caused by recent continuous rains and flooding.
During a ground visit in the markets of Khalishpur, Daulatpur, and Gollamari in Khulna city, it has been found that there is an intense frustration and dissatisfaction among both buyers and sellers regarding the soaring prices.
This abnormal, "sky-high" price situation has arisen due to a supply crisis fueled by incessant rainfall, the submergence of vegetable fields in various regions, and low production within the Khulna area.
According to reports, the price of chicken has increased by Tk 5-10 per kilogram. A fresh hike in egg prices-now Tk 46-48 for a set of four (hali) and Tk 130-150 per dozen-has placed low- and middle-income consumers in a difficult position. Compared to last week, the price of almost all vegetable varieties has risen by Tk 15-20 per kilogram.
Currently, pointed gourd (patal) is being sold for Tk 70-80, okra for Tk 50-60, snake gourd (chichinga) for Tk 60-80, sponge gourd (dhundul) for Tk 80, bitter gourd for Tk 70-80, eggplant for Tk 80-100, and ridge gourd (jhinga) and yardlong beans for Tk 100 per kilogram.Tomatoes are being sold at Tk 120 per kilogram. However, there is some relief regarding green chilies, which are selling at Tk 100-120.
Additionally, sweet pumpkin is available at Tk 55-60, teasle gourd (kakrol) at Tk 80-100, bottle gourd at Tk 50-60, and papaya at Tk 35-40 per kilogram, while onions are being sold at Tk 50-55 and garlic at Tk 100-130 per kilogram. Fish prices remain high, similar to last week.
Meanwhile, the price of broiler chicken has risen by Tk 5-10 per kilogram, currently selling at Tk 190-195. Additionally, cock chicken is selling at Tk 310-320 and native chicken at Tk 570-620 per kilogram. Beef is selling in the market at Tk 750-800 per kilogram.
Alamgir Hossain, a vegetable vendor at Gollamari Market, said that prices have risen slightly at both wholesale and retail levels this week due to a reduced supply of vegetables caused by a lack of rainfall. He expressed hope that prices would drop again once supplies increase.
However, general consumers have expressed frustration over these frequent price hikes.
SM Shamim Ahmed, a shopper at Gollamari Market, said, "Prices might drop slightly one week, only to double the next. A set of four eggs that cost 40-42 taka a short while ago is now 48 taka. Common people are struggling to cope; it is urgent to implement an effective, regular market monitoring system."
>>BM Rakib Hasan in Khulna
