Odisha Contemplates Potato Procurement from Uttar Pradesh Amid Price Surge

Due to a severe potato price surge in Odisha, attributed to supply disruptions from West Bengal, the state government plans to procure potatoes from Uttar Pradesh. Food Supplies Minister Krushna Chandra Patra reviewed the situation, stating the existing stock would last for seven days, and strict action against hoarders is forthcoming.

Odisha faces a sharp spike in potato prices, reaching Rs 50 per kilogramme, due to limited supply from West Bengal. In response, Food Supplies and Consumer Welfare Minister Krushna Chandra Patra revealed that the state is considering procuring potatoes from Uttar Pradesh.

After assessing the market situation, Patra visited a potato stockyard and confirmed that while the state has enough stock for seven days, an unusual price increase persists. He has directed officials to take severe measures against hoarders and vendors overpricing the commodity.

Patra criticized the previous BJD government for failing to maintain adequate cold storage facilities and declared the state's potato mission ineffective. The disruption in supply stems from a strike by cold storage owners in West Bengal. This issue prompted MLA Manas Dutta to warn of potential retaliatory measures if the blockade continues.

(With inputs from agencies.)