Potato Crisis Deepens in Odisha as West Bengal Tightens Border Control

Bhubaneswar: Amid soaring potato prices in Odisha, the West Bengal government has intensified measures to curb the flow of potato-laden trucks into the state, potentially exacerbating the crisis.

The West Bengal authorities have now installed CCTV cameras along the Odisha border to monitor and restrict the movement of these trucks through alternative routes.

The sharp rise in potato prices in Odisha markets followed the West Bengal government’s alleged directive to halt the supply of potatoes to the state. Despite the supply restrictions, some trucks were reportedly entering Odisha by bribing officials at checkpoints. However, the recent installation of CCTV cameras at strategic locations, including Nilada village and six out of ten escape routes along the Odisha-West Bengal border, aims to tighten the control.

With round-the-clock police patrolling and trucks barred from entering Odisha at the Laxmannath toll gate, concerns over further price hikes are growing.

In response, the Odisha government has initiated a relief measure, offering three kilograms of potatoes at Rs 100 to each ration card holder. The Food Supplies & Consumer Welfare Department has directed dealers to distribute 10 packets of potatoes each, continuing the process until market prices stabilise. Officials have assured that the government has secured an adequate stock to support this initiative.