Heatwave Threatens Fruit and Vegetable Harvest in Maharashtra

Pune, 30th March 2024: As the scorching heat grips the region, farmers in Maharashtra are facing a dual challenge of dwindling crops and rotting produce. The adverse effects of the heatwave are particularly evident in the state’s prized fruit orchards and vegetable fields.

In Konkan, renowned for its Hapus mangoes, growers are grappling with a significant loss of yield. Despite relatively lower sunshine in coastal areas, Hapus orchards are bearing the brunt of the heat.

Vivek Bhide, President of the Konkan Hapus Growers and Sellers Association, lamented the widespread phenomenon of small mango fruits prematurely falling from trees.

Meanwhile, in Western Maharashtra, Khandesh, and Marathwada, Kesar mangoes are also succumbing to the scorching temperatures.

Dr Bhagwan Rao Kapse, President of the Mahakesar Mango Growers Association, highlighted the distressing situation, noting that both harvested saffron mangoes and developing fruits are being adversely affected. The occurrence of flowering in four phases this year has exacerbated the damage, with small fruits particularly vulnerable to sun-induced rot and dropping.

In response to the crisis, farmers are resorting to innovative measures such as wrapping mango trees with jute to shield them from the sun’s intense rays.

Additionally, pomegranate orchards across the state are facing challenges, with the flowering season underway. Plastic covers are being employed to protect delicate flowers and buds from heat-induced damage, while efforts to conserve moisture through the strategic placement of sugarcane leaves are underway.

However, the heatwave’s impact extends beyond orchards to vegetable crops, where stunted growth and wilting leaves are prevalent. Dr Yashwant Jagdale, Head of the Vegetable Quality Center at the Baramati Agricultural Science Center, raised concerns about the dire situation facing pomegranate orchards in water-scarce regions.

With temperatures soaring above 35 degrees Celsius, the looming threat of flower and fruit drop looms large, exacerbating the already challenging conditions for farmers. The need for increased irrigation and water conservation measures further compounds the financial burden on growers, who must contend with additional expenses for plastic mulching.

As the summer intensifies, the agricultural community in Maharashtra remains on high alert, navigating the delicate balance between preserving their livelihoods and weathering the relentless heatwave.