State gears up for Pongal
Posted on: 14/Jan/2016 10:05:36 AM
Vellore and its surrounding areas are showing signs of celebrating the harvest festival Pongal. The markets in the area have been busy and there have been loads of sugarcane being transported.
One such market place is Long Bazaar, which is a one stop place for all festival needs. A bundle of sugarcane consisting of 18 to 20 canes cost Rs. 400 to 550 now. The cost depends on the cane`s height and thickness. Last year, a bundle was sold for Rs. 300 to Rs. 500... Vellore gets most of its sugarcane supply from Salem, Chidambaram and Kumbakonam. The yield was good this year but the rains in November damaged crops severely. Now, it seems that the government is procuring the damaged canes, and hence, farmers have been able to breathe easy, said a vendor.
Jaggery is another food that is very much in demand. A kilo of jaggery costs Rs. 30 to Rs. 40 depending on colour. Jaggery produced from various parts of the district is supplied to other parts of the State including Chennai and Kancheepuram. However, the sales (are) dull now when compared to last year. The production itself is less this year, vendors say.
Vegetable prices are stable say vendors. The rates of most of the vegetables are normal. On some days, there is variation in cost due to dip in supply. But consumers have nothing to worry while purchasing vegetables for Pongal festival, they say.
