Prayagraj: Persistent rain has begun to pinch household budgets in Prayagraj, with not only vegetables but also fruits becoming costlier as supply from producing districts is hit by waterlogging, harvesting disruptions and transportation problems.While tomato, onion and several green vegetables have seen a sharp rise in prices over the past 10 days, fruits such as mangoes are now selling at over Rs 100 per kg, while apples cost more than Rs 200 per kg, with premium varieties priced at Rs 300 and above.The reduced arrival of vegetables at the city’s major wholesale markets in Mundera and Phaphamau has pushed up prices in both wholesale and retail markets. .Mundera mandi trader Satish Kushwaha said the situation could worsen if the rain continues.

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“Vegetable harvesting has been affected in several areas, while waterlogging is also leading to substantial crop damage. Transportation has also been disrupted, resulting in inadequate arrivals at the mandis,” he said.For the past three days, potatoes are being sold at Rs 20-24 per kg and onions at Rs 32-36 per kg at Mundera mandi, while wholesale tomato prices stood at Rs 30-35 per kg. In the retail markets of Chungi and Salori, tomatoes were being sold at Rs 40-45 per kg and onions at Rs 42-45 per kg.Traders said tomato and onion prices have risen considerably compared with 10 days ago. However, locally grown vegetables such as bottle gourd, ridge gourd and cabbage remain relatively affordable.Fruit prices have also remained high, adding to the burden on consumers. Traders said prices may ease once weather conditions improve and supplies return to normal.