The state's ongoing drought has negatively affected fruit and vegetable production, leading to increased prices in the Hubballi-Dharwad market. Tube wells, a primary water source for agriculture during the summer, have become less effective due to a significant drop in groundwater levels, compounded by an electricity shortage.
Rising temperatures and humidity have further diminished agricultural yields. Traditionally, Dharwad district relies on a substantial influx of vegetables from Selagavi, but supplies have been reduced. Consequently, the cost of vegetables in Hubballi and Dharwad has escalated, with carrots priced at Rs 100 per kg, tomatoes at Rs 50, capsicum at Rs 80, potatoes at Rs 50, brinjal at Rs 90, cucumbers at Rs 80, and green chili at Rs 100-130.
The fruit sector is similarly affected, with apples costing Rs 200-250 per kg, pomegranates at Rs 200-220, grapes at Rs 80-100, and watermelons between Rs 80 and Rs 100 per kg. A local farmer highlighted that the adverse weather conditions have prevented plants from flowering or bearing fruit. Retailer Ramanna Badiger noted a decrease in consumer purchases due to the price surge, and anticipates no immediate relief in prices or supply. Chandru Talawar, a Hubballi resident, mentioned the impact on local events, which are unable to feature the usual quantity of vegetables due to the scarcity.
[ Rs 100 = €1.10 ]
Source: timesofindia.indiatimes.com