Pune News: Custard Apple Production Hits Roadblock In Valhe Area Of Purandar Taluka 

The production of custard apple, a promising fruit in Purandar’s dryland belt, has taken a hit in the Valhe area. Unseasonal warming during summer flowering has reduced pollination, resulting in lower production and smaller fruit size.

The lack of rainfall has restrained fruit growth, while excessive rain in outer areas has flooded roads to markets. To make matters worse, the market price of custard apple has plummeted. Last year, high-quality fruit fetched Rs. 1500-2300 per crate, but currently, small fruits sell for Rs. 50 per crate and large ones for Rs. 200-250 per crate.

Adachiwadi in Valhe has led the production of custard apple, with the fruit market thriving in the area. The season, which runs from June to January, has seen abundant fruits entering the market, attracting traders from Pune, Baramati, Phaltan, and Kolhapur.

However, changing weather conditions and erratic rainfall have decreased production and affected sales due to diseases like white mold. With the festive season approaching, custard apple growers face challenges in recovering transportation costs due to the fallen market price.

“We’re struggling due to unpredictable weather and decreased market prices,” said Suryakant Pawar, a custard apple grower. “Last year’s prices were promising, but this year’s production has been disappointing.”

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