The Agriculture Produce Market Committee (APMC) in Vashi saw a significant increase in the arrival of garlic, with quantities ranging from 1800 to 2953 quintals. On 23^rd February around one truck and sixteen tempos carrying garlic had come to the market. This surge in supply has led to a decline in the buying price of garlic in the wholesale market, providing some relief to buyers.

According to officials at APMC, the average buying price of garlic now stands at Rs 120 per kg, reaching a peak of Rs 220 per kg. This marks a notable decrease from the record high prices witnessed in the previous months.

Traders caution that while wholesale prices have dropped, retailers may have to wait a bit longer for substantial relief. The increased supply is attributed to the arrival of new crops after a period of minimal stocks and high prices.

Rafiq Patel, a trader, highlighted concerns over the situation, citing damage to crops during the harvest period due to rainfall. This, combined with increased consumption during winter, had contributed to the surge in prices.

While traders anticipate a further decline in retail prices within a week if the supply continues to improve, residents, particularly homemakers, have found managing kitchen budgets challenging. Some have even resorted to discontinuing the use of garlic altogether due to dissatisfaction with quality, even at the previously exorbitant prices.