GUWAHATI: A fresh rise in the prices of essential commodities has added to the financial strain on households in Guwahati, with the cost of daily necessities rising steadily over the past few weeks. From LPG cylinders and edible oil to sugar, eggs and vegetables, consumers are paying significantly more for everyday essentials, while retailers cite rising procurement and transportation costs as the primary reasons behind the hike.
Residents say the increase in LPG cylinder prices has been particularly concerning. Speaking to GPlus, one consumer said, "The last cylinder I bought cost ₹962, but when I purchased one last week, it was priced at ₹991. In less than a month, the price has gone up by nearly ₹30. Earlier, we were told prices had increased because of the war, and that India had enough stock. So why are prices rising again?
Edible oil prices have also seen a sharp jump, increasing by ₹10 to ₹20 per litre in recent weeks. Some popular brands that were previously sold for around ₹195 per litre are now priced close to ₹220, while premium varieties are retailing between ₹285 and ₹290 per litre.
The price of other household staples has also risen. Sugar, which was selling at around ₹48 per kg, is now retailing at ₹52 per kg. Egg prices have increased as well, with the cost of a tray rising from ₹250 to ₹280. A local grocery shopkeeper told GPlus that eggs are now being sold at Rs 9 each due to the increased wholesale price.
Among vegetables, onions have registered one of the sharpest price hikes. Retail prices have climbed from around ₹40 per kg to nearly ₹50 per kg within a week, further adding to household expenses.
Retailers say they are unable to absorb the higher costs as they are themselves purchasing goods at increased wholesale rates. As a result, they have little choice but to pass on the additional burden to customers.
With prices continuing to rise across several essential commodities, both consumers and traders are hoping for market stability in the coming weeks. While households are being forced to rethink their monthly budgets and prioritise essential spending, retailers say easing wholesale prices and transportation costs will be key to bringing relief to the market.