Pune: Akshaya Tritiya is one of the biggest occasion where many people start eating seasons first mangoes. On the occasion of Akshaya Tritiya, Pune residents flocked in large numbers to the fruit market at the Gultekdi Market Yard on Sunday to purchase mangoes. Being a holiday, the market witnessed a massive turnout of customers.
However, due to a shortage of 'ripe' specifically naturally ripened mangoes relative to the high demand, customers were compelled to opt for the alternative 'Karnataka Hapus' variety instead of the coveted 'Devgad Hapus'.
Traders reported that since the available stock of Devgad Hapus consisted mostly of unripe fruit, many customers chose to wait a few days rather than making a purchase, ultimately leaving the market empty-handed.
In the run-up to Akshaya Tritiya, there is typically a strong demand in the market for both Hapus and Pairi mangoes. This year, however, customers are unable to find the desired quantity of fully ripened fruit. Currently, the market is witnessing a significant influx of mangoes primarily Hapus varieties from the Konkan belt (specifically Ratnagiri and Devgad), alongside Karnataka Hapus.
Mango Prices Skyrocket Amidst Inflation
- Due to the limited availability of ripe mangoes coupled with overwhelming demand, prices have surged by 10 to 20 percent.
- In the wholesale market, the price for a single crate of Hapus mangoes ranges from ₹2,500 to ₹5,000, depending on the size and quality of the fruit.
Turning to Karnataka Hapus as an Alternative
As the prices of Konkan Hapus mangoes remain beyond the reach of the common man, many customers are shifting their preference to the Karnataka Hapus variety. This variety characterized by its attractive appearance and moderate flavor also witnessed robust demand on Sunday. Although the supply of Karnataka Hapus was satisfactory, customers were compelled to rely on it to fulfill their need for ready-to-eat, ripe mangoes.
Current Price List:
- Hapus: (3-dozen crate) — ₹1,000 to ₹1,600
- Pairi: (4-dozen crate) — ₹700 to ₹1,000
- Lalbagh: — ₹30 to ₹60 per kg
- Badam Mango: — ₹50 to ₹70 per kg