Persistent rain and adverse weather have driven vegetable prices sharply higher across markets in Cumilla, with most items selling for Tk100 or more per kilogram on Friday morning. Retail green chilies were selling for Tk400 per kilogram, while shoppers, particularly low-income residents, said they were struggling to manage household food costs amid the increase.

Vendors said farmland, including areas around the Gomti char, had been submerged, damaging crops and preventing timely harvesting and transport to markets. Supply shortages have raised prices of eggplant, cucumber and other vegetables by Tk50 to Tk80 per kilogram within a week. Market prices included eggplant at Tk120, bitter gourd at Tk150 to Tk160, okra at Tk120, ridge gourd at Tk130 and tomatoes at Tk140 per kilogram.

Rajganj market seller Liton Mia said farmers were not bringing enough vegetables to market and retailers had to charge more after paying higher purchase prices. Cumilla consumer rights official Kawsar Mia said inspections were underway and action would be taken against attempts to charge excessive prices. Traders said prices could fall if weather normalizes and supplies increase, but may rise further if rain continues.