Naveen Patnaik Urges West Bengal Potato Supply

Former Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik has written to West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, requesting her intervention to facilitate the smooth supply of potatoes to Odisha. He highlighted that recent rains have caused a shortfall in potato supply, resulting in an artificial price hike that burdens the common people. Patnaik noted that over 50 trucks loaded with potatoes are stranded at the West Bengal-Odisha border, exacerbating the situation. He emphasized the cultural ties between the two states and previously acknowledged Banerjee's support in similar issues. The price of potatoes in Odisha has surged to Rs 50 per kg, prompting urgent action to alleviate the crisis. This potato supply issue reflects broader tensions affecting inter-state commodity flow, particularly as West Bengal manages its own supply challenges.