The heat wave in Bengaluru is not only taking a toll on people and livestock, but it’s also burning a hole in their pockets as food prices soar. The ongoing drought-like conditions, aggravated by a decline in bore well water levels and the setback of the east monsoon, have led to a significant increase in the prices of essential food items.
The agricultural sector has been hard-hit, with crops suffering due to the absence of rain. Horticulture crops are withering, and vegetable yields are dwindling under the scorching sun and water scarcity.
The dwindling supply of vegetables has led to a surge in prices. Beans are now priced at an exorbitant Rs. 200 per kg, while tomatoes have crossed the Rs. 40 mark per kg. Carrots are fetching prices ranging from Rs. 50 to Rs. 70, while bitter gourds are priced at Rs. 60 and green chilies at Rs. 80-100 per kg. Even fruits like apples and pomegranates have seen their prices skyrocket.
The scarcity of fish due to dried-up fishing lakes and reduced sea fishing has driven up prices, with fish now costing as much or even more than chicken. Chicken prices have surged to Rs. 200 per kg due to the prolonged heat affecting poultry farms. The time taken to produce one kg of meat has increased from one week to 10-11 days, further exacerbating the shortage.
With nearly 30% of poultry farms in the state lying empty due to water scarcity, the prices of chicken are expected to remain high, adding to the burden on consumers already grappling with rising food costs.
