In a span of just three days, onion prices in the local markets of Fulbari upazila in Dinajpur have sharply increased, causing concern and frustration among consumers. Onions that were being sold at Tk 23 to 25 per kilogram are now priced between Tk 47 and Tk 50 per kilogram, depending on quality and type.

A visit to the Fulbari municipal market on Friday morning (April 18) revealed the sudden surge in prices. Local vendors confirmed that just a few days earlier, the same onions were being sold for half the current price. Now, customers are forced to pay nearly double, without any clear justification from market authorities or suppliers.

Afzal Hossain, a rickshaw puller who came to buy onions, expressed his dismay. He said that only a few days ago, he was purchasing good quality onions for Tk 25 per kg, but now he must spend Tk 50 for the same amount. He questioned how low-income people like him would manage their daily expenses if such price hikes continued unchecked.

Another customer, Shahidul Islam, pointed out that even during the high-demand period of Ramadan, onion prices had remained relatively stable. He questioned what has caused such a sudden spike in prices now, well after the fasting month has ended. Shahidul suggested that more frequent and effective market monitoring by the local administration could prevent unscrupulous traders from manipulating prices.

Retail vegetable vendors in the municipal market stated that there has been no shortage in supply. Onions from key producing regions such as Pabna, Faridpur, and Natore are arriving in good quantities. However, they alleged that some wholesale traders in the region have begun hoarding onions, creating artificial scarcity in the market, which in turn has led to the abrupt rise in retail prices. This has sparked dissatisfaction among buyers, who suspect foul play behind the scenes.

Wholesale traders in the Fulbari market, including Mihir Pramanik and Shamsul Islam, acknowledged the rise in prices but explained that they too are under pressure. They claimed that prices have gone up at the wholesale level, particularly in the central hubs (mokaam), forcing them to purchase at higher costs. As a result, they are selling to retailers with minimal profit margins. The traders blamed large-scale wholesalers in the main supply regions for hoarding onions and driving up prices, which then trickles down to the retail markets.

Local authorities have taken note of the situation. Fulbari Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Md. Ishaq Ali stated that the upazila administration will investigate the sudden price increase through regular market monitoring. He assured that steps will be taken to identify any irregularities and stabilize the market as soon as possible.

As of now, consumers and small vendors remain in limbo, uncertain of how long the inflated prices will persist. Many are calling for swift and decisive action from the authorities to ensure fair trade practices and protect the interests of low-income families already struggling with rising costs of living.