The scorching heatwave in Bengaluru has brought forth not only a dire shortage of water but also a sharp increase in prices, leaving residents in shock. As temperatures rise day by day, residents are turning to alternatives like fruit juice, buttermilk, and tender coconut water to quench their thirst. However, the supply of Coconut water has dwindled, leading to a surge in prices from Rs 35-40 in February and March to Rs 45-50 now.
Traditionally, Bengaluru has relied on fresh water sourced from regions like Chamarajanagar, Mandya, Hassan, and Tumkur. However, consecutive years of drought have caused groundwater levels to plummet, leaving many farms and tube wells dry. With low yields due to water scarcity, the city’s supply of fresh water has been severely impacted.
Even the tender coconut water sourced from Maddur APMC is now being redirected to states like Maharashtra and Gujarat, leaving Bengaluru residents grappling with limited access. Water sellers reveal that only those with strong connections to suppliers are receiving supplies, with 300 to 400 gallons sold daily at inflated prices.
According to Shiva, a water seller in Jayanagar 3rd block, the scarcity has led to a decrease in fruit yield, further exacerbating the situation. The cost of sourcing tender coconut water from Kerala has also surged, leading to prices as high as Rs 60-65 per Coconut.
Mahesh Prabhu, Vice President of the State Farmers Association in Chamarajanagar, highlights a 30% decrease in tender coconut water yield due to the summer heat and lack of rainfall. While urban areas witness skyrocketing prices, farmers receive only Rs. 25 per Coconut for their produce. They anticipate relief only after the arrival of the new crop in June.
With tender coconut water supply slashed by 50%, suppliers are compelled to pass on the increased costs to consumers, further straining their wallets.
