In Jaipur areas under curfew, people complain of commodity shortage
JAIPUR: People living in the curfew-bound areas of the city said they are facing shortage of essential commodities. They also complain of rise in the prices of vegetables.
“Many things like edible oil, sugar, spices, rice, cereal, pulses and ghee are not available at grocery shops. The prices of flour have also increased. Seven days back the price of wheat flour was Rs 30 per kg, which has increased to Rs 45 per kg,” said Santosh Devi Sharma, a housewife living in Bohoroji Ki Gali area in the walled city.
“Our stock is ending and same is the story of people living in neighbourhood. I on behalf of my family appeal to administration that the shortage of essential items should be filled soon as possible. Also, the stock should be distributed equally,” she added.
Jaipur city collector Jogaram said the administration was trying to ensure that every necessary commodity is supplied. “200 vans have been arranged for home delivery of milk items. We have tied up with grocery shops and Cooperative Consumer Federation Ltd. We will also take action against the shops and vendors who would charge high,” he said.
Mohammad Rahim Khan, resident of Ramganj area in the walled city, said prices of vegetables have increased in his area, as many vegetable vendors are taking advantage of the curfew and selling them at higher prices.
“The prices of tomatoes and potatoes have increased from Rs 20 to Rs 40 per kg, lady finger from Rs 50 to Rs 80 per kg, onion from Rs 30 to Rs 50 and green chili from Rs 35 to Rs 80 per kg,” he said.
Ashu Choudhary, additional director of agriculture marketing board, who is incharge to look after the supply of fruit and vegetables, said that the prices of the commodities have been fixed by the government. “Some vendors at their individual level must be selling vegetables at higher prices. We will take action against such vendors and try to ensure that nobody has to pay extra money for the vegetables in time of crisis,” he said.
Additional commissioner of police (addl CP), law and order, Ajay Pal Lamba said that a total of 1,500 cops including three companies of the Rajasthan Armed Constabulary (RAC) and 900 home guards have been deployed to maintain the law and order and ensure people don’t violate the lockdown guidelines.