Urea shortage hits Tiruchi’s private market

Urea shortage disrupts farming in Tiruchi as demand spikes during critical sowing period, affecting supply at private outlets.

A shortage of urea in private fertilizer outlets has begun to disrupt farm operations at a critical juncture in Tiruchi district.

The current spike in demand coincides with land preparation and early sowing activities for kuruvai and maize cultivation in the district. Farmers typically apply basal doses of fertilizers during the phase, making urea — the primary source of nitrogen essential for early vegetative growth — critical at this stage.

Retailers across the district said supplies had failed to keep pace with demand over the past week. “I have told at least 10 customers today that we do not have stock. Urea is essential as other fertilizers will not work without it,” said R. Raman, a fertilizer shop owner in Athavathur.

Echoing his concern, K. Ravi, another dealer, said the uncertainty over replenishment had added to the strain. “We do not have urea stock now, and we do not know when fresh supplies will arrive. There is a steady demand from farmers. We have requested companies for more stocks, but nothing has reached us yet.”

Dealers pointed out that while the government-fixed price of urea was ₹266 per bag, the retail price in private shops often touched around ₹300 due to loading, unloading, and transport costs. Some also flagged supply-linked practices by companies, including bundling of micronutrients along with urea, which increased the costs for retailers and, in turn, farmers.

Farmers’ representatives warned that the shortage could affect timely agricultural operations. “This is a crucial period, and farmers should be adequately supplied with urea through all channels including private shops. The upcoming season will require higher fertilizer use,” said N. Rajendran of Tamil Maanila Congress farmers’ wing.