The influx of Hapus mangoes into Vashi's APMC market has increased, resulting in a price reduction. Rising temperatures have led to early harvesting, with 6,000 crates arriving on Tuesday. Due to early picking, many mangoes are smaller.
Prices have decreased by $6 to $12 per crate. Previously, crates with 4 to 6 dozen mangoes were priced between $42 and $84, but they now sell for $36 to $72. Although a good harvest was anticipated, unpredictable weather has affected production.
The recent heatwave has intensified, impacting Hapus mangoes and prompting orchard owners in Konkan to harvest sooner than usual. The intense sun is affecting fruit quality, causing premature fruit drop. To reduce losses, farmers are speeding up the harvest.
"Since March, Hapus mangoes from Konkan, as well as those from Karnataka and Raigad, have been arriving in larger numbers. However, extreme heat has led to early harvesting before the mangoes fully mature. Currently, 80% of the mangoes in the market are small, with only 20% being larger," said trader Sanjay Pimple.
Source: Lokmat Times