In northeast Delhi, recent unrest has led to a downturn in the fruit and vegetable sector, particularly affecting the trading volume at Azadpur Mandi, a key north Indian market. Trading of fruits and vegetables has decreased by approximately 25% due to difficulties faced by hawkers and vendors in accessing the markets. The disruption has forced retailers to rely on existing stock, with no new purchases from the wholesale markets in the last couple of days. According to the Agricultural Produce Market Committee (APMC) of Azadpur Mandi, there has been a noticeable decline in the uptake of fruits and vegetables, with oranges, guavas, apples, watermelons, and melons being overstocked, whereas vegetable stock is comparatively lower.
Despite these challenges, the impact on fruit and vegetable prices has been minimal. The supply chain from neighboring states like Rajasthan, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh remains unaffected, ensuring a steady inflow of new arrivals. However, the number of retail traders visiting the market has dwindled, leading to reduced uptake relative to supply. The situation has also impacted wholesale markets across the Yamuna river more severely, with a 60-70% decrease in retail business, causing a drop in vegetable wholesale prices by about 10%.
Source: livemint.com