According to traders, supply of food commodities like lentils, rice, vegetables and milk, among others, have been affected because of strikes by different political parties and groups in different parts of the country. They fear supply deficit will lead to price hike.
"Though the situation is not that critical, we have witnessed some disturbance in supply of essential commodities due to the strike," Pabitra Man Bajracharya, president of Nepal Retailers Association, told Republica. "Big traders and wholesalers tend to take advantage of situation by creating artificial shortage."
According to Bajracharya, wholesalers have already raised price of split red gram and Jeera Masino rice by Rs 20 per kg and Rs 5 per kg, respectively, to Rs 120 per kg and Rs 65 per kg.
Similarly, supply of fresh milk to Kathmandu has been affected due to strikes in different parts of the country. "Though all political and non-political forces have agreed not to hinder supply of essentials commodities like milk and water, they have failed to live up to their commitments. This will affect supply chain and might lead to shortage and subsequently price hike," Pralhad Dahal, general secretary of Nepal Dairy Association (NDA), said.
Meanwhile, Dahal informed that NDA has written letters to all district administration offices in all 75 districts as well as different political parties, to do the needful to ensure smooth movement of vehicles carrying milk and dairy products as well as other essential commodities.
Officials of Kalimati Fruits and Vegetables Market Development Board said supply of fruits and vegetables from some Tarai districts has dropped. "This, however, has not affected overall supplies," Ramesh Dangol, planning officer of the board told Republica.
According to the board, price of some vegetables like potato, onion, cauliflower and pointed gourd, among others, have increased by as much as 35 percent compared to two weeks ago.
Meanwhile, some fuel stations have started reducing supply of petrol and diesel to consumers. Though Nepal Oil Corporation (NOC) has not reduced fuel supply, some stations are hoarding petrol and diesel, creating artificial shortage in the market.
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