NewsFlash Daily™
16 March 
Demand slump hits farmers hard; cabbage, cauliflower and other vegetables see steep price fall in Kolar APMC market
Kolar: The ongoing conflict between Iran and Israel is now having ripple effects far beyond the Middle East, with its economic impact being felt even in Karnataka. The crisis has triggered a sharp decline in vegetable prices as disruptions in commercial LPG supply have forced many hotels to shut down.
According to traders, the shortage of commercial gas cylinders has severely affected the hospitality sector. Many eateries and restaurants in Bengaluru and other towns have temporarily closed operations, leading to a sudden drop in demand for vegetables.
Sharp Price Drop in Kolar APMC Market
The situation is particularly visible in the Kolar APMC Market, where vegetable prices have dropped drastically over the past few days.
Vegetables that earlier sold at Rs. 40–Rs. 50 per kilogram is now being sold for just Rs. 10–Rs. 20. Some items have seen even steeper falls:
- Cabbage: Rs. 2–Rs. 3 per kg
- Cauliflower: Rs. 5–Rs. 8 per kg
Capsicum, Ridge gourd, chilli, Sweet Corn, Carrot and Brinjal have also witnessed significant price declines.
Traders say the closure of small eateries and street food stalls, which typically prepare items such as bajji, bonda, gobi manchurian, noodles and fried rice, has greatly reduced vegetable consumption.
Farmers Facing Heavy Losses
Farmers in Kolar district and nearby regions had invested heavily in cultivating vegetables during the summer season, expecting higher returns. However, the sudden crash in prices has left many growers facing losses worth several lakhs of rupees.
Normally, around 60 per cent of vegetable demand comes from hotels, restaurants and catering businesses. With that demand currently missing, farmers are struggling to find buyers for their produce.
Impact Seen Beyond Karnataka
Traders say the crisis is not limited to Karnataka alone. Similar situations are being reported in other states as well, where reduced hotel activity and supply disruptions have weakened the agricultural market.
Farmers noted that vegetable prices typically rise during peak summer due to high demand, but the current geopolitical tensions and resulting supply issues have created an unusual market situation.
Call for Government Intervention
Vegetable traders and farmers believe that prices will stabilise only after the hotel industry resumes normal operations. They have urged the government to step in quickly and take measures to support farmers who are currently facing severe financial stress.
