As floodwaters begin to recede in the affected areas of Parshuram, Fulgazi, Chhagalnaiya, and Sadar upazilas of Feni, the prices of essential food items and daily necessities have skyrocketed.
A Tk 10 candle is now being sold for Tk 100, highlighting the extreme exploitation by some traders in the region.
Among the most coveted items are dry foods such as flattened rice (chira), puffed rice (muri), and molasses (gur). These items, crucial for relief efforts, have also seen their prices soar. A gas cylinder that used to cost Tk 1,300 is now priced between Tk 2,500- Tk 2,600. Despite no significant supply shortages, traders have drastically increased prices, capitalizing on the flood crisis.
In Feni city's largest wholesale market, prices have surged by one and a half to two times compared to pre-flood rates. Sellers confirm that prices are rising daily, with no signs of stabilizing soon.
Amir Hossain, owner of Abir Store at the wholesale market, said: "Transportation costs have tripled, and wholesalers are hiking prices, exploiting the flood situation. It's all due to warehouse syndicates and traders."
Sharif Ullah, resident of Sonagazi, said, "There’s a shortage of goods, and what little is available costs double. Due to the power outage, a Tk 10 candle now costs Tk 100. Even at these inflated prices, items are hard to find."
Md Kausar, Deputy Director of the Directorate of National Consumer Rights Protection, Feni, said: "We anticipated price increases and are monitoring the situation. Although transportation costs have risen, we are urging traders to keep prices reasonable to maintain a stable supply."
Md Shahadat Hossain, general secretary of Sujon (Citizens for Good Governance): "The price hike is unbearable, especially for the lower and middle classes. Traders' greed for excessive profits is worsening the situation."
As the crisis deepens, the people of Feni continue to suffer under the weight of skyrocketing prices, with no relief in sight.
