Potato Prices Rise in Odisha Amid UP Supply

Bhubaneswar: As potato prices in Odisha continue to rise, several trucks carrying potatoes from Uttar Pradesh arrived at markets across the state early Monday. Around 300 trucks are expected to reach various locations soon, according to sources.

The price surge follows West Bengal’s sudden ban on exporting potatoes to neighboring states, causing several potato-laden trucks to be stranded at the Odisha-West Bengal border near Belda. The situation has raised concerns among West Bengal traders, who are now threatening to strike over mounting losses.

In Odisha, the shortage has driven prices up to ₹40-₹50 per kilogram in many areas. However, the state government has decided not to request West Bengal to resume supplies, stating they will only accept voluntary shipments.

“We received four trucks from West Bengal and one from Uttar Pradesh today. The 300 trucks promised by the government are also expected soon. Currently, we are selling potatoes at ₹38 per kilogram wholesale,” said Debendra Sahu, secretary of the Chhatra Bazaar Traders’ Association in Cuttack.

Meanwhile, officials from the Food Supplies and Consumer Welfare Department conducted raids in Cuttack and Bhubaneswar, including at Chhatra Bazaar, to curb the alleged sale of potatoes at inflated prices.