Baramulla, July 6: Consumers across Kashmir are grappling with rising food costs as chicken and egg prices have surged amid the continued disruption in mutton supply. With mutton still unavailable in sufficient quantities, many households have turned to poultry, driving up demand and retail prices across the Valley.
In Baramulla, chicken is currently selling at ₹190 per kilogram, while a tray of eggs is retailing at ₹220, leaving consumers worried over the rising cost of daily essentials.
Residents say the hike is unusual for the summer season, when poultry prices generally decline due to increased production and lower demand.
“This is the first time we are witnessing such high chicken prices during summer. Normally, rates fall at this time of the year,” said Musadiq Ahmad, a resident of Kanlibagh.
Although the mutton dealers’ strike has ended, supply has yet to return to normal, prompting more consumers to switch to chicken and eggs. Poultry traders attribute the increase to soaring demand and higher transportation costs.
“Demand for chicken has increased significantly because mutton is still not readily available. Higher wholesale prices have directly impacted retail rates of both chicken and eggs,” said Fayaz Ahmad, a poultry trader in Baramulla.
Consumers have also alleged inadequate market monitoring, claiming that retailers across the district are charging similar high prices without effective regulation.
Residents have urged the Baramulla district administration to closely monitor the poultry market, ensure transparent pricing, and take action against unjustified profiteering so that essential food items remain affordable for the public.
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