Pune: Consumers are experiencing relief as tomato prices, which had surged past ₹100 per kilo in retail markets, have dropped significantly. The increase in supply has resulted in prices falling by more than 50% over the past week, with current prices ranging from ₹40 to ₹50 per kilo.

Tomato prices saw a steady increase throughout July due to reduced supply against high demand. Retail prices had spiked to ₹100 per kilo, as new tomato crops had not yet reached the market and rain had disrupted supply. Vilas Bhujbal, a senior trader at Shri Chhatrapati Shivaji Market Yard, noted that these factors had caused the price hike.

Tomatoes from Khed, Manchar, Ambegaon, and Junnar in Pune district are major suppliers to markets in Pune and Mumbai. The limited supply in the wholesale market led to a surge in prices. Generally, the Pune Market Yard wholesale market receives four to five thousand crates of tomatoes.

However, the recent break in rain has increased supply, with the number of crates doubling. This influx has driven prices down, and Bhujbal predicts no significant price hikes in the near future.

Vilas Bhujbal, Senior Trader, Shri Chhatrapati Shivaji Market Yard stated, "In July, the Market Yard's wholesale market received four to five thousand crates of tomatoes.

Over the past three to four days, supply has increased significantly, now seeing ten to twelve thousand crates daily. Improved cultivation and a respite from the rain have led farmers to send more tomatoes to the market."

Prakash Dhamdhere, Vegetable Vendor, Retail Market said, "A week ago, retail prices for a kilo of tomatoes ranged between ₹90 to ₹120 depending on the grade. The past four days have seen a surge in supply, exceeding expectations and causing prices to drop."

Current Tomato Prices:

• Wholesale Market: ₹100 to ₹200 (per 10 kilos)

• Retail Market: ₹40 to ₹50 (per kilo)