Hilsa still pricey in Chandpur

CHANDPUR, Aug 15: Hilsa fish still sells at an exorbitant price in all markets of Chandpur despite its adequate supply.
Common people say that hilsa is beyond their purchasing power due to its sky-high prices in the hub of the national fish.
During a recent visit to some markets, this correspondent has found that big-size hilsa retails at Tk 2,000-2,100 per kg.
A hilsa weighing 800-900 gram sells at Tk 1,400-1,450 at retail outlets. Small-sized hilsa sells at Tk 900 per kg while that of 500-600 gram sells at Tk 1,200 per kg.
Some disappointed poor and middle-class families were seen buying small-size hilsa at Tk 900 per kg in busy Biponibagh market in the district town on Sunday night.
Fish traders at Chandpur Boro Station Fish Landing Ghat told the FE that although it is the peak season for hilsa, its supply from Bhola, Hatiya, Charfasion, Sandwip, Char Alexander, Ramgati and Laxmipur is far below their expectations.
On average, 40-50 maunds of hilsa are supplied to this fish ghat every day. So, hilsa sees a price spiral which is disappointing for all. This time of last year, the hilsa supply from southern districts was around 2500-3000 maunds of hilsa daily in this fish ghat.
Veteran fish merchants, however, say, "Still we are optimistic. In near future we hope of getting abundant supply of hilsa. We are looking forward to it.''

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