The impending severe cyclonic storm 'Montha' in the Bay of Bengal has triggered a sudden and steep increase in vegetable prices, causing distress among consumers.
Prices for staple vegetables like potatoes and onions have surged overnight, allegedly due to unscrupulous traders capitalizing on the potential cyclone and customer rush.
Just two days ago, potatoes were priced at Rs 50 per 3 kg, but the cost has now jumped to Rs 70 per 3 kg.
Onions have seen a similar increase, also selling for Rs 70 per 3 kg. The wholesale price of a potato bag dramatically rose from Rs 550 to Rs 850 overnight.
'Montha' is intensifying and is expected to make landfall between this evening and night near Kakinada, Andhra Pradesh, with maximum wind speeds of 110 kmph.
The storm's approach, which is already bringing heavy rains, has been linked to this inflationary pressure on essential commodities.