Heatwaves Shrink Alphonso Mango Yield in Konkan, Prices Set to Soar
The rising temperatures and the absence of winter have seriously affected Alphonso mango production in Maharashtra’s Konkan region, particularly in Ratnagiri. Due to multiple heat waves since the beginning of the year, farmers are seeing a sharp decrease in mango yield. Nandkishor Jadhav, a mango orchard owner from Sangameshwar and Ratnagiri talukas, reported a 75% drop in his produce this season. He mentioned that his trees haven’t flowered or produced fruit since December. Even if prices double compared to last year, he doubts he’ll cover his production costs.
Transporting the limited stock to Pune, where Alphonso mangoes are priced between ₹6,000-7,000 per box (four dozen), is also uncertain for Jadhav due to low quantities and high transportation costs. Vivek Bhide, chairman of the Konkan Hapus Amba Utpadak Vikreta Sahakari Sanstha, predicts that only 30% of the usual Alphonso mango yield will reach consumers this year. He blames the decline on the warm winter and extreme heat, which disrupted the mango trees’ flowering and fruit formation process.
Usually, mango trees flower multiple times a year, ensuring fruit until May with proper fertilizers and growth promoters. However, this year’s heat waves, with temperatures exceeding 39°C since January, have led to excessive fruit dropping and minimal flowering. The mango season, which typically starts in January and peaks after March 15, is now expected to begin around April 4 and end by mid-May, much later than usual.
The unpredictable weather has distressed mango farmers, facing reduced yields and uncertain market conditions. Since Alphonso mangoes are a valuable export from Konkan, the limited supply is likely to increase prices, affecting both farmers and consumers.
