Due to the prolonged dry weather conditions, Ahsan Ali has been forced to buy and resell vegetables to maintain his livelihood.
Ba Market vendor Ali, who lives in Vatia, Tavua, says conditions in his area are very dry and vegetable prices have more than doubled.
Ali says the situation has drastically affected vegetable prices, with okra (bhindi) now selling for $7 per kg, eggplants costing $50 per bag and cucumbers also selling for $50 per bag.
He says the high prices are making it difficult for vendors and consumers.
Ali says families in his area are also experiencing water issues, although they are fortunate to have a borehole that provides water for their daily needs.
However, he says the borehole water is used for drinking and not sufficient for farming.
Ali says this is the first time he has experienced vegetable prices reaching such high levels.
