The sale of rice at Tk 30 per kilogram has commenced for readymade garment workers in Chattogram. The initiative comes at a time when rice prices, including coarse varieties, are on the rise in the market. The program began on Friday morning at various garment factories across the Chattogram metropolitan area.
According to the district food directorate, 150 metric tons of rice have been allocated in the first phase for workers of 30 garment factories in the metropolitan area. Each worker is being provided with 10 kilograms of rice at a cost of Tk 300, meaning the effective price stands at Tk 30 per kilogram — significantly lower than the prevailing market rate.
Long queues at factories
Long queues of workers were seen inside factories from early morning to collect the rice. Workers expressed relief at being able to purchase rice at a price lower than the market rate. However, they also demanded that other essential commodities be supplied at fair prices alongside rice.Authorities concerned said efforts are underway to extend this facility to factories across different areas of Chattogram metropolitan area. Workers of factories enlisted in the first phase are receiving this benefit.
Market situation
Rice prices have been elevated in the market recently, with even coarse varieties seeing upward pressure. Garment workers have been struggling to manage household expenses amid the rising costs. In this context, the opportunity to buy rice at Tk 30 per kilogram has brought relief to many workers.However, no official announcement has been made yet regarding how long this program will continue and whether more factories will be brought under its coverage in the future. Factory authorities have also welcomed the initiative alongside the workers.
