The king of fruits is set to disappoint its patrons in the city this time round with high price and probably very low yield.
Mangoes have begun to arrive at the largest wholesale fruit market in the city at Kothapet, a month before than usual.
The market received 1,177 quintals of Benishan mangoes as early as January, which is a little early as compared to the previous year. However, the arrivals have improved to mere 15,204 quintals so far, as against 97,272 quintals two years ago. In 2017, by March, three varieties including Benishan, Totapari, and Dasheri began making appearances at the market. This time, it is only Benishan till now.
Low yield, high price
Last year, however, the arrivals in March were only over 13,000 quintals, which is much lower than normal. “Like last year, the yield this time is said to be very low and, hence, the price is high. A few days ago, the best Benishan variety from Kollapur were sold for ₹90,000 per tonne in auction,” informs E. Venkatesham, Selection Grade Secretary of the Agricultural Market Committee, Gaddiannaram.
The market is witnessing trade in 100 to 150 tonnes of mangoes each day as of now, which could peak to 600-1,000 tonnes per day during the months of May and June.
The fruit is coming into the State from various locations of Andhra Pradesh, including Nuzivid, Nandyal, Anantapur, Dhone, Kadiri, Eluru, Vizag and Rayachoti, apart from being grown locally at Warangal, Kalwakurti and other places.
It is exported to other States, besides being consumed locally. Most famous varieties are Benishan, Totapuri, Neelam, Rasalu, Himayat and Dasheri. Mangoes used for pickles are yet to arrive in the market.
On an average, the price is varying from ₹60,000 to 70,000 per tonne, which is considered high when compared with the normal ₹25,000 to 30,000 per tonne during peak season, traders say.
“This time, farmers are saying the yield is very low owing to crop loss, thanks to unseasonal rain. Now, apparently there is flowering, but it needs proper rain for fruition. Otherwise, the arrivals will be very low and the price may not come down at all,” says Mohammed, a trader.
Thankfully, calcium carbide, the banned chemical used to ripen mangoes, is not found in market. Instead, traders are using powdered ethylene sachets, in the cartons being exported.