Following a disruption in potato supplies from West Bengal due to a strike, the Odisha government has turned to Uttar Pradesh and is now considering Punjab as alternative sources for procurement. The interruption in supplies from West Bengal resulted in a significant spike in potato prices in Odisha, prompting the state to seek more stable sources.
The supply chain disruption last week led to allegations of extortion by West Bengal authorities and political workers at the border, which caused potato prices in Odisha to rise sharply. Prices in Bhubaneswar and Cuttack soared to Rs 60 per kg, then fell to Rs 35 per kg when supplies from Uttar Pradesh arrived. However, prices surged again to Rs 50 per kg due to dwindling stocks and ongoing issues with West Bengal.
Odisha’s traders have also faced challenges with the Uttar Pradesh supply due to potential rain damage and high transportation costs. To address these issues, the state government is considering transportation subsidies and bulk procurement through railways. Additionally, utilizing the state’s cold storage facilities, which can hold up to 10,000 tonnes of potatoes, is proposed to stabilize prices.
In an effort to ensure a steady potato supply and prevent future price volatility, the Food Supplies and Consumer Welfare Minister of Odisha has indicated that the state is prepared to procure potatoes from Punjab if necessary.