Prices of essential food items have witnessed a sharp increase across Kashmir over the past few weeks, putting additional financial strain on consumers already grappling with rising living costs. Poultry, eggs and vegetables have all become costlier, with traders attributing the spike to disruptions in the supply chain following the closure of the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway.
The price of chicken has increased to Rs 200 per kilogram, while a tray of eggs is now retailing at around Rs 220- Rs 240. The prices of several vegetables, particularly those transported from outside the Valley, have also risen significantly in wholesale as well as retail markets.
The increase comes at a time when the closure of the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway due to landslides and adverse weather has affected the movement of trucks carrying essential commodities into the Valley. Traders said the disruption has reduced the arrival of fresh supplies, creating shortages and pushing up prices.
Wholesale dealers at Parimpora Mandi, Kashmir’s largest fruit and vegetable market, said the number of trucks arriving with vegetables, poultry and other perishables has declined considerably over the past few days.
“Fresh supplies have been affected because the highway remains closed. Whatever stock is available in the market is limited, and wholesale prices have gone up. Naturally, the increase is being reflected at the retail level,” said a trader.
Poultry dealers said chicken prices have reached Rs 200 per kilogram primarily because of reduced arrivals from outside Jammu and Kashmir.
“The Valley depends heavily on outside supplies of poultry. With transport disrupted, fewer consignments are reaching the markets. Demand has remained almost unchanged, but limited availability has pushed prices higher,” a poultry wholesaler said.
Egg dealers also reported a sharp increase in wholesale prices.
“The procurement cost has increased due to supply constraints, forcing retailers to sell eggs at around Rs 220 per tray. If fresh consignments continue to be delayed, prices could rise further,” a dealer said.
Vegetable vendors said the impact has been visible across a range of vegetables, including tomatoes, onions, cauliflower, cabbage and leafy greens.
“Every day we receive fewer supplies than usual. Transportation delays have increased procurement costs, and retailers have little option but to pass on the additional burden to consumers,” said a vendor at a city market.
Consumers said the sudden rise in prices has put additional pressure on household budgets.
“The prices of almost everything have increased within a few days. Chicken, eggs and vegetables are all costlier now. For middle-class and low-income families, it is becoming increasingly difficult to manage daily household expenses,” said Ajaz Ahmad, a Srinagar resident.
Market observers said the Valley’s dependence on the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway for the supply of essential commodities makes it particularly vulnerable to disruptions caused by weather-related road closures. Any prolonged interruption in traffic movement often leads to shortages of perishable goods and a corresponding increase in prices.
Traders warned that if normal traffic on the highway is not restored soon, prices of essential commodities are likely to increase further as existing stocks get exhausted.
