Chilli farmers furious over price drop

Warangal: Mild tension prevailed at the Enumamula Agriculture Market Yard here on Thursday with the farmers staging a dharna in protest against steep fall in chilli prices.

According to farmers, the 341 variety of chilli that commanded Rs 9,000 per quintal on Wednesday fell to Rs 8,400 per quintal on Thursday. They accused the traders for the sudden drop of price. Trading of chilli came to a grinding halt for some time with the farmers resorting to flash protest at the market.

On the other hand, the traders contended that the produce arrived to the market was damaged due to recent rains, hence it was not possible for them to buy at high price. This apart, the other reason for the drop-in price was due to increased arrival of the produce. 

It’s learnt that farmers from Khammam district were also descending on Enumamula market in hope of good price. With there was an increase in the arrivals, the traders are trying to exploit the situation, it’s alleged. 

According to Market Yard secretary Sangaiah, the crop arriving at the market was damaged due to recent rains. The price being offered to farmers is reasonable, considering the crop quality, he said. The Police, who arrived on the spot, pacified the farmers. The trading of chilli resumed in the afternoon.