Dhaka, April 10 -- Vegetable and fish prices have surged in Dhaka's kitchen markets over the past week, with traders citing increased transport costs triggered by rain and a fuel crisis as reasons behind the hike.

A visit to several kitchen markets, including Rayerbagh, Shonir Akhra, Kaptan Bazar, Shantinagar, and Segunbagicha on Friday revealed a sharp rise in the cost of most essential kitchen items.

Okra, which sold at Tk 50 per kg last week, was priced at Tk 90.

Customers buying less than a kg, however, were forced to pay a rate of Tk 100 per kg.

The price hike also hit other staples.

Pointed gourd rose by Tk 30, reaching Tk 100 per kg at Jatrabari.

Large round aubergines saw a massive jump, selling at Tk 120-140 per kg, up from...