Even as the prices of rice, sugar, vegetable and pulses are skyrocketing in the open market, the Supplyco Onam-Ramzan Metro People’s bazaars inaugurated across the state come as a big relief for consumers.
Union Minister of State for Food and Civil Supplies, K.V. Thomas, inaugurated the Metro People’s bazaar at the Ernakulathappan ground here on Saturday.
The bazaar, selling sugar, rice, vegetables, pulses and other groceries at subsidized rates, is a respite for consumers weighed down by burgeoning prices.
Though the stalls are yet to be sufficiently stocked, business took off instantly after the inauguration. On Sunday, a holiday, several consumers lined up in front of the stalls.
Ahead of the festive season, more bazaars will be opened in other places in the district. On Monday, People’s Bazaars will be inaugurated at Thripunithura, Muvattupuzha and Piravom on Monday.
Many of the items, especially vegetables, are being sold at almost half the price in the open market.
The bazaars will be open on all days from 9 am to 8 pm.
The prices will change on a daily basis. While prices of rice and pulses have been shooting up in the open market during the last few weeks, the People’s Bazaars have brought down the prices.
The prices of Jaya rice and Matta rice, which are in high demand in the state, are `21 and ` 16 per kg, respectively. Pulses and vegetables are also being sold at prices 25 to 35 per cent lower than in the open market.
Last year too, the Supplyco opened several People’s Bazaars across the state and these were a huge hit during the festival season.