After weeks of intense heat, rising tomato prices are now adding to consumers’ troubles. Retail tomato prices in Indore have crossed ₹80 per kilogram and traders warn that rates could climb further in the coming weeks. The sharp increase has been driven by the complete depletion of local crops in Madhya Pradesh, dwindling arrivals from Rajasthan and higher market entry taxes. At the city’s largest fruit and vegetable market at Choithram, tomato prices have reached ₹800-1,000 per crate. Maharashtra now sole supplier for MP Maharashtra is currently the only major source of tomato supply for Indore and the rest of Madhya Pradesh. Traders expect the state to remain dependent on Maharashtra for the next three months, with prices likely to ease only after fresh crops arrive around Ganesh Chaturthi. Wholesale and retail prices vary widely Tomato prices differ significantly depending on quality and source. Maharashtra tomatoes: Premium tomatoes from Narayangaon and Kalwan are selling at ₹800-1,000 per crate in the wholesale market. Wholesale rates range between ₹50 and ₹60 per kg, while retail prices have reached ₹70-80 per kg. Rajasthan tomatoes: Tomatoes arriving from Rajasthan are selling at up to ₹400 per crate. Wholesale prices range from ₹30 to ₹40 per kg, while retail rates are as high as ₹60 per kg. Four reasons behind the price surge 1. Local crop exhausted across MP Severe heat and preparation for new sowing have sharply reduced tomato production in Madhya Pradesh. Crops have ended in most parts of the Malwa and Nimar regions, with only limited produce still available in the Harda belt. 2. Rajasthan supply likely to end soon Tomatoes are still arriving from Bada Nayagaon and Kota in Rajasthan, but poor soil conditions and water shortages have affected production. Traders estimate that these arrivals could stop completely within the next 5 to 10 days. 3. Strong demand from other states With tomato shortages in Madhya Pradesh, demand from Gujarat and southern states has increased significantly. Higher demand outside the state has pushed mandi prices upward. 4. Increase in mandi entry tax The market entry tax at mandi checkpoints has been raised from 1% to 1.5%. Traders say the higher tax has increased transportation and trading costs, contributing to higher retail prices. Supplies arriving from Maharashtra Tomatoes reaching Indore are currently being sourced from Narayangaon, Salkhamner and Kalwan in Maharashtra. Desi tomato consignments are also arriving from the Kanad region. Relief expected only after Ganesh Chaturthi Traders and market experts believe tomato prices may rise further once the monsoon begins, as transportation challenges and spoilage risks typically increase during the rainy season. They warn that prices could cross ₹80 per kg and may even touch ₹100 before fresh crops arrive. A decline in prices is expected only around Ganesh Chaturthi when new harvests begin reaching markets. Other vegetables also becoming expensive Tomatoes are not the only vegetables witnessing price increases. Reduced arrivals of several vegetables have pushed up rates across the market. Vegetables that were selling for ₹20-30 per kg a few days ago are now being sold at ₹40-70 per kg. Arrivals from five states decline According to traders, extreme heat has affected crops in Malwa, Nimar, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan and Gujarat. As a result, the supply of green vegetables has fallen sharply. The number of large transport vehicles arriving at the market has decreased, with most supplies now coming in smaller pickup vehicles. Traders say prices are likely to remain high until weather conditions improve and arrivals increase. Current retail vegetable prices Post navigation Nagod royal family daughter-in-law shot during family dispute in Satna:Accused woman arrested; mother claims Baba Raja shouted ‘shoot her’ Youth sets himself on fire at finance office in Sagar:Had gone to reclaim seized car, manager injured during rescue attempt
