Heatwaves Devastate Alphonso Mango Yield in Konkan Region
The Konkan region of Maharashtra, known for its high-quality Alphonso mangoes, is facing a severe crisis as extreme heatwaves have significantly reduced mango yields. Farmers are reporting major losses, raising concerns about the future of mango cultivation and its economic impact on the region.
Heatwaves Disrupt Mango Production
Since the beginning of the year, the Konkan region has experienced multiple heatwaves, with temperatures soaring beyond 39°C. This extreme weather has severely disrupted the natural flowering and fruit-setting process of mango trees. Typically, Alphonso mango trees flower during the winter, and fruit formation occurs within two months. However, the absence of a proper winter and persistent high temperatures have hindered this cycle, leading to fewer flowers and increased fruit drop.
Farmers in key mango-producing districts, including Ratnagiri, Sindhudurg, and Raigad, have reported up to a 75% decline in their usual mango yield. Many have expressed concerns that even if market prices rise, the losses incurred due to low production cannot be recovered. The rising transportation costs and limited stock are making it challenging for farmers to bring their produce to major markets, where Alphonso mangoes are currently priced at premium rates.
Market Supply and Economic Concerns
Experts predict that the availability of Alphonso mangoes will be significantly lower this year. The delayed flowering and excessive fruit drop have resulted in only about 30% of the usual crop reaching markets. With peak mango arrivals typically expected by mid-March, traders now anticipate a delay, with bulk supplies arriving only in early April and ending earlier than usual.
The reduced supply is expected to drive up prices, making Alphonso mangoes less accessible to consumers. Traders have also noted that export volumes may shrink, affecting international markets that rely on India’s premium mango variety. The shortened mango season could impact not only local sales but also the overall economy of mango-dependent farmers in the region.
Future Outlook and Climate Impact
With extreme weather conditions becoming more frequent, farmers fear long-term repercussions on mango production. Many are calling for government support and agricultural interventions to help mitigate the effects of climate change on fruit cultivation. The rising unpredictability of weather patterns poses a serious challenge to sustaining Alphonso mango farming in the coming years.
As climate-related challenges continue to affect traditional crops, efforts to introduce adaptive farming techniques and provide financial assistance to affected farmers will be crucial in ensuring the future of Alphonso mango cultivation in the Konkan region.
