Shillong, Sept 13: Comingone Ymbon, Minister In-charge of Food Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs, addressed concerns on Friday regarding rising prices of essential commodities in Shillong, acknowledging only slight increases in the cost of vegetables and meat. He dismissed claims of a significant price hike across the state and criticized the opposition Voice of the People Party (VPP) for politicizing the issue ahead of the upcoming MDC elections.
“Only the prices of vegetables and meat have risen, while the rest of the essential commodities remain almost the same,” Ymbon said, attributing the higher prices to logistical issues. He explained, “Meghalaya is not a production state; we rely on external sources. If prices are high in other states, they will naturally be high here as well.”
Ymbon pointed to recent changes in transportation routes as one of the main factors contributing to the price rise. Following restrictions on heavy trucks crossing the Umiam Bridge, vehicles now have to take longer routes through Mawryngkneng or Mawkasiang, adding 60-70 kilometers to the journey. “This increased distance has led to higher transportation costs, which is reflected in the market prices,” he said.
Ymbon also highlighted the absence of railway connectivity as another factor. “Transporting goods by truck is significantly more expensive than by train. With no railway in Meghalaya, we are dependent on trucks, which raises costs,” he explained.
Accusing the VPP of politicizing the issue, Ymbon remarked, “This is a political ploy ahead of the MDC elections to mislead the public.” He assured that while prices may fluctuate slightly due to these challenges, the situation is being monitored closely.
The Minister underscored that the government has established a Price Monitoring Committee at both state and district levels, and that price data from Shillong is reported daily to the Government of India. He further assured, “The department and the district commissioners are actively overseeing the situation. The price is stable, and we are working hard to address any issues.”
He also noted the government’s efforts in preventing hoarding and black marketing, stating that 442 raids have been conducted in 2023 alone to ensure compliance with pricing regulations. “We are vigilant and will continue monitoring to protect consumers,” Ymbon affirmed, dismissing any allegations of black marketing or extortion as factors in the price rise