Udupi
Intense summer heat has led to a sharp increase in the prices of fruits and vegetables, putting additional pressure on household budgets as consumers face rising costs in local markets.
Traders say the price surge is the result of multiple factors, including water scarcity, crop diseases, and reduced agricultural output. Extreme heat conditions have affected cultivation in several areas, while lack of irrigation water has further reduced market arrivals.
Farmers in the district report significant crop damage due to pest attacks and diseases such as yellowing, which has lowered the availability of locally grown vegetables. As a result, markets are increasingly dependent on supplies from other regions, driving up transportation costs and final retail prices.
Demand has also risen due to the ongoing wedding season and frequent social gatherings, further straining supply. This mismatch between demand and availability has contributed to steady price escalation across essential produce.
Vegetable prices have seen notable increases, with okra reaching around ₹80 per kg, ridge gourd at ₹55 per kg, and ash gourd crossing ₹40 per kg. Fruits have also become costlier, with apples priced above 240 per kg and pomegranates touching ₹250 per kg.
Traders note that fruits like pomegranate are in higher demand during summer due to their perceived health benefits, keeping prices elevated. Banana varieties are selling at about ₹90 per kg, while watermelon has risen from ₹30 to ₹40 per kg, and papaya is around ₹50 per kg.
Vendors also point out storage challenges, as extreme heat causes faster spoilage of vegetables like cucumber and ash gourd, leading to additional losses. With no immediate relief expected, prices are likely to remain high until weather conditions improve and supply stabilises.