Odisha’s Potato Crisis Deepens as West Bengal Stops Truck Entry, Odisha Government Scrambles for Solutions

In an unexpected turn of events, Odisha is facing a major crisis as a result of a potato supply disruption caused by West Bengal. The West Bengal police intercepted and returned over a hundred potato-laden trucks bound for Odisha. This move follows a sharp increase in potato prices in West Bengal, prompting the Mamata Banerjee government to halt potato transportation out of the state.

Potato Prices Skyrocket in Odisha

As a direct result, potato prices in Odisha have risen dramatically. The staple has become scarce as there is no incoming supply from West Bengal. Hundreds of potato-laden trucks en route from West Bengal have been stopped at the state border by West Bengal police, exacerbating the situation. Following the price increase, the West Bengal government decided to turn back potato trucks to reduce the outflow of the essential commodity.

Government’s Response

In response to rising prices, the Odisha government has implemented a series of measures. They have begun raids on storage facilities and have issued warnings against hoarding. In addition, a state minister has announced plans to import potatoes from Uttar Pradesh to alleviate the shortage.

Impact on the Supply Chain

The disruption has left a large number of trucks stranded at the Odisha-West Bengal border. The Bengal police are conducting thorough inspections to prevent trucks from crossing the border. This is not due to law and order concerns, but to ensure a consistent supply of potatoes in Bengal. As a result, hundreds of potato-laden trucks have lined up at the border since last night.

Regional Impact

These trucks, which were originally destined for Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Tamil Nadu, are now stuck due to the West Bengal government’s directive. The price increase in Bengal has prompted the decision to halt potato exports to other states, which will have a significant impact on Odisha’s markets. Potato prices in Odisha have risen to Rs. 40-50 per kg across the state.

Stock and Retail Price Measures

While the government claims a seven-day potato supply, the situation remains critical. Markets that used to receive 6-7 potato trucks per day now have none. As a result, retailers are paying higher prices and selling at even higher prices to cover their costs. Retailers have stated that they purchase potatoes at Rs. 40 per kilogram but are forced to sell them for more than Rs. 45.

Minister’s Inspection

In a proactive move, Odisha Food Supply Minister Krushna Chandra has been inspecting potato storage facilities in Bhubaneswar. After assessing the market situation, he announced that stored potatoes would be priced at Rs. 27 per kilogram, with retail prices capped at Rs. 32. Any sale above this price will trigger immediate action. He condemned West Bengal’s decision to turn back the trucks and stated that he intends to discuss the issue with the Mamata government.

Alternative Sourcing

Minister Krushna Chandra has stated that if West Bengal does not resume potato supply, Odisha will source potatoes from Uttar Pradesh. Meanwhile, opposition leader Naveen Patnaik has written to West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, pleading for her intervention to restore the potato supply.