Consumers complain of soaring flower prices this Tihar
The hike is attributed to the government’s restriction on the import of foreign flowers, leading to limited supply in the market.
KATHMANDU: Flower prices have skyrocketed this Tihar festival, leaving consumers frustrated.
The hike is attributed to the government’s restriction on the import of foreign flowers, leading to limited supply in the market.
Buyers say the price of marigold garlands, which used to cost around Rs. 800 per bunch in previous years, has now surged to as high as Rs. 1,200.
They argue that locally grown flowers alone cannot meet the high festival demand, and the import ban has fueled black market activities.
While consumers have welcomed the ban on plastic flowers, they have also urged authorities to conduct strict market inspections to curb artificial price hikes.
As Tihar — known as the festival of flowers and lights — reaches its peak, Kathmandu markets are packed with buyers purchasing garlands and decorations.
The Kathmandu Metropolitan City has designated 32 locations for flower and garland sales this festive season.
With Laxmi Puja falling on Monday, flower markets have seen an even greater rush as people prepare to adorn their homes with vibrant marigolds.
