As the farmers are busy planting paddy, the vegetable market in Dang is seeing supply shortage. Moreover the vegetable and paddy cultivation overlapped this year because of late rainfall. Seasonal vegetables produced in the villages are being consumed by villagers themselves. [break]
Businessmen said low production of vegetables in the villages has forced them to import vegetables form outside hence the high prices.
It´s even difficult for businessmen to meet vegetable demands of the people in towns in the district. Hotels of Dang are also facing problems due to the unexpected scarcity.
"About 80 percent of the vegetables being sold have been imported and they are costlier. It is very difficult for customers to afford vegetables," said Basanta KC, a vegetable businessman of Ghorahi.
"Vegetables in Dang have been imported from Birgunj, Rolpa, Salyan, Butwal, Dhangadhi and Chi”wan," he added. Potatoes and some green vegetables are being imported from India, according to KC.
Vegetable prices differ from shop to shop as they are imported. The price of vegetables in Dang has increased by about 500 percent than last year.
"Last year, green beans would cost Rs 10 per kg but now, it costs ”s 60," said customers. According to Man Bahadur Gharti, the chairman of Market Management Committee, the prices will decrease only if local farmers begin growing vegetables.
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