Chennai: Fish prices at Kasimedu dip, chicken rates drop as Sabarimala season begins

CHENNAI: There has been a drop in the prices of fish and chicken as the Sabarimala season when many opt for a vegetarian diet has begun. Mutton prices, however, continue to be on the higher side.

Sources in the fisheries department said the catch that arrived at the Kasimedu fishing harbour on Sunday was good, but there were very few takers.

Vanjiram, Vavval, Sankara, Kaanankeluthi, Kizhangan , Paarai , Kilichi and squid were among the popular varieties that landed. Traders said the difference between wholesale and retail prices was only ₹100. The Sankara variety, which sold at ₹300 per kg in the wholesale market, retailed at ₹400 per kg. Except Vanjiram, prices of all the other varieties were on the lower side, an official said.

The demand for chicken also dipped, with the average price being ₹260 per kg. While country chicken was sold at ₹500 per kg, farm chicken came at a cost of ₹300 per kg. But the price of mutton continued to be high, selling for around ₹900 a kg.

Zuber Ali , a trader in Thiruvanmiyur, said that normally during winter, the breeding of goats/sheep comes down. In the north of the country, the mutton prices will continue to go up till the winter season is over and in the southern parts, the prices will be on the higher side till the end of January.