The price of watermelon has increased in the capital over the course of a week, causing concern for low and middle-class buyers who are finding it increasingly unaffordable. This spike in price is due to a rise in demand, as customers are including watermelon in their Iftar menu during Ramadan due to the intense heat. Traders have taken advantage of this opportunity and raised prices. Retailers argue that they are being forced to sell at higher prices due to wholesalers increasing their own prices.
In various markets around the capital, including Karwan Bazar, Gudaraghat of Gulshan, Bhatara Bazar, and Bashundhara areas, watermelons are being sold for 70 to 80 Tk per kg, compared to the previous week’s price of Rs 35 to 40 per kg. According to traders, the market supply of watermelon has decreased, leading to higher prices. Only small and medium-sized watermelons are available, as many larger ones were destroyed due to rain in the fields a few days ago.