Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru/Udupi

Mangaluru/Udupi, Mar 8: With the onset of Ramzan and the intensifying heat in the coastal regions, fruit and vegetable prices have seen a sharp rise, putting a strain on consumers' wallets.

In Dakshina Kannada (DK), the price of fruits, particularly those in high demand for juices and beverages, has surged significantly. Oranges, which were priced at Rs 40 per kg at the beginning of March, are now being sold at Rs 80 to Rs 90 per kg. While the price of watermelons has remained stable, ranging between Rs 22 and Rs 25 per kg, the yellow watermelon is sold at Rs 30 per kg. Strawberry prices also remain steady, with a box available for Rs 50 to Rs 60.

Interestingly, there has been a drop in the price of Nendra bananas, which had peaked at Rs 80 to Rs 90 per kg earlier this month but are now available for Rs 60 to Rs 70 per kg. The increased availability of this fruit is believed to have contributed to the price reduction.

In Udupi, the escalating heat has also driven up the prices of fruits and vegetables. The high demand for fruit juices, particularly apple, sapota, and pomegranate, has led to a steep rise in their prices. The cost of pomegranate has increased from Rs 190 to Rs 220 per kg, while apples are now Rs 220 per kg. Grapes are priced at Rs 90 per kg, and papayas, which were Rs 60 last week, are now Rs 80 per kg. Watermelon, a popular summer fruit in the coastal region, has risen to Rs 40 per kg from the earlier Rs 30. Mangoes are currently priced at Rs 180 per kg.

Vegetable prices have also surged due to a combination of climatic conditions and supply shortages. Heavy rains during the monsoon damaged vegetable crops in some areas, while the current heatwave and water scarcity have affected crop yields. This has led to reduced supply in wholesale markets, contributing to the price hike.

"With the start of the fair season, there is a huge demand for vegetables. However, due to limited supply, prices have gone up," said a vegetable vendor in Udupi.

He added that the coastal region has fewer local vegetable growers, with most produce being sourced from other regions, resulting in higher prices compared to other areas. Locally grown vegetables are even more expensive.

Traders attribute the price rise to a mix of increased demand during Ramzan and the extreme weather conditions affecting crop production and supply chains.