Hapus Mango Prices Soar Ahead of Gudi Padwa: Low Supply Hits Markets
Hapus Mango Prices Soar Ahead of Gudi Padwa: Low Supply Hits Markets
Unseasonal weather has severely impacted Hapus mango production. Delayed monsoon withdrawal, lack of winter chill, and rising temperatures since February have led to lower yields. The first bloom of mangoes fell prematurely, reducing production considerably. As a result, mango prices have skyrocketed compared to last year.
Currently, Ratnagiri and Devgad Hapus mangoes are selling at ₹1,500 to ₹2,000 per dozen. This price hike means that mangoes will be expensive for Gudi Padwa, making them unaffordable for many consumers.
Mango lovers eagerly wait for the fruit’s arrival as summer begins. Usually, supplies increase by late February and peak in March, just before Gudi Padwa. However, this year, arrivals in the fruit market are much lower than usual.
During March, Konkan typically sends 4,000 to 5,000 crates of mangoes daily to markets. Currently, only 700 to 1,000 crates are arriving per day. Experts expect supply to improve next month.
Due to lower production, mango prices have shot up. Many consumers buy mangoes two to three days before Gudi Padwa. However, compared to last year, availability has dropped by 30-40%.
Last year, Hapus mangoes were priced at ₹500 to ₹700 per dozen during Gudi Padwa. This year, prices have doubled, ranging from ₹1,000 to ₹2,000 per dozen.
Daily arrivals during Gudi Padwa were around 4,000-5,000 crates last year, but now only 1,000-3,000 crates are reaching markets. With demand rising, mango lovers will have to pay a premium for their favorite summer fruit this season.
