Tomato turns costly: Bengaluru sees sudden surge to ₹80 per kg

Tomato prices soar in Bengaluru as supply drops sharply

Tomato prices in Bengaluru have recorded a steep jump over the past few days, causing worry among daily consumers. Until last week, tomatoes were available for ₹30-40 per kg across most city markets. However, retail prices have now moved to ₹70-80 per kg, signalling a sudden and sharp rise.

Market reports indicate that the spike is largely driven by a significant supply mismatch. Key sourcing regions such as Madanapalle and Chittoor are witnessing unstable arrivals. In the wholesale yards there, the highest-grade tomatoes are currently priced at around ₹610 for 10 kg, while second-grade tomatoes sold at approximately ₹480 on Monday. These rates have directly influenced the price movement in Bengaluru.

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According to agricultural market data, continuous rainfall over the past weeks has severely disrupted tomato cultivation. The erratic weather has either damaged standing crops or delayed harvesting, reducing the volume reaching major urban centres. With demand remaining steady, the limited supply has pushed prices higher.

Another factor adding pressure is the absence of a strong storage system. Since tomatoes are highly perishable, traders are unable to build stock buffers during periods of low arrivals. This has amplified the price jump in retail outlets across the city.

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With supply likely to remain inconsistent in the short term, traders warn that tomato prices could rise even further in the coming days. Households already feeling the impact may need to brace for continued price volatility until market arrivals stabilise.