“There will be a 10 per cent increase in vegetable prices this week and it could go up further as supply will be hit due to rains,” said P Sukumaran, treasurer, Koyambedu Wholesale Market Merchants’ Association.

According to vendors, fruit prices will also go up this week. With the reopening of the wholesale grains market in Koyambedu, vendors also hope they can return there soon.

“The stalls flood during the rains and it causes safety and hygiene issues for us. If we are to return to Koyambedu, we hope there will not be any flooding issues and we can safely continue business. Koyambedu is also more accessible to customers, and so sales will increase,” said a vegetable vendor.

Prices of tomatoes are expected to rise to Rs 50 per kg, brinjal to Rs 45 per kg and beans and broad beans around Rs 50-60 per kg. The increase is expected to last for a week.