The exports of fresh green vegetables and fruits, and mangoes in particular, from Varanasi and surrounding districts have been shaken up in the second wave of Covid-19 pandemic that led to stopping of all international flight operations from the city. Procurement of goods -including farm products- is not proving possible in quantities up to 20 tons for export in one consignment, which has made it difficult to operate cargo flights from LBS International Airport, Varanasi.
The export of green vegetables and mangos from the orchards of district’s Rajatalab, Sevapuri and also from neighboring districts has stopped. Producer organizations of the region had explored markets in the Gulf countries for their fresh vegetables in April 2020 and had succeeded in sending 3 tons of green vegetables including gourd, cucumber and chilly to London amidst lockdown during the first wave of Covid.
However, this time no international flights are operating. Cargo flights for exporting goods and perishable items are available either from Lucknow or Delhi. If vegetable consignments are sent via Lucknow and Delhi, the cost of transportation will increase the price of produce.
Source: timesofindia.indiatimes.com
Photo source: Dreamstime.com