Warangal: Untimely rains and the harsh summer heat have taken a toll on mango sales in Warangal this year.
Mango production in the district has decreased considerably. The prolonged dry spell delayed the flowering of trees and eventually withered off. Later on due to sudden heavy rains whatever fruits were growing dropped off the trees sending the farmer deep into trouble. This year, mango was cultivated in 30,000 acre in the district but the production has decreased with unseasonal hailstorms and drought.
The quality of the fruits also declined because of the harsh weather conditions. The retailers are also incurring losses as the fruits are getting spoilt soon because of the hot weather.
“I bought 10 tonnes of fruits at the beginning of season but the poor quality has resulted in many consumers rejecting the fruit. Due to the summer heat, they ended up getting spoilt earlier than they usually do. I have already incurred a huge loss this year,” laments B. Saraiah of Karimabad.
Usually the fruit markets would be buzzing with mango sales this time of the year. At least 10 lorries with mangoes used to arrive every day. But this year, the arrivals are delayed and the fruit market in Warangal is showing poor business.
Rangamma of Desaipet says the bad weather conditions have resulted in decline in the price of the mangoes. “This year, we are facing very bad sales. Even after we reduced the price, people are not buying the fruit because of bad quality. Also many are scared of usage of carbide for ripening. People suspect that carbide is being used because the fruit dropped off early.” she said.
