The price of essentials such as rice, pulse and soybean oil will remain stable during Ramadan, said Dhaka South City Corporation Mayor Sayeed Khokon yesterday.

He made the announcement at a views-exchange meeting with Moulvibazar Traders Association at its office in Old Dhaka.

Khokon said although it is not possible to totally control price of essentials due to globalisation, the traders have assured him of not increasing price of essentials during Ramadan.

The Dhaka south mayor listened to the problems of the business community and assured them of solving those, including constructing a multi-storey market and improving the drainage system in the area.

Shafikul Islam, general secretary of Dal Beboshayi Samity, said the price of pulses dropped in the last week and there is enough supply for the price not to rise in Ramadan. 

Abul Hasem, vice president of Moulvibazar Traders Association, said security, traffic congestion and poor drainage are the main problems they face.

He added if the authorities take effective measures to reduce traffic congestion, the price would be reduced as traffic congestion affects price of goods.