Mango Glut in Pune: Alphonso Prices Crash, Farmers Struggle While Shoppers Rejoice
Pune’s Market Yard is bustling with the arrival of the prized Alphonso mangoes, but the surge in supply has led to a sharp price drop, leaving Konkan farmers in distress. While consumers enjoy bargain deals, growers face mounting losses due to unfavorable weather and market conditions.
Farmers Bear the Brunt as Prices Plummet
This season, a flood of Alphonso mangoes (locally called Hapus) from Devgad, Ratnagiri, and other Konkan regions has saturated Pune’s markets. However, erratic weather—missing winter spells followed by heavy rains—damaged crops, reducing sweetness and fragrance. Despite higher supply, farmers are struggling as prices have crashed by 25-30%.
A box of 4-8 dozen mangoes now sells for ₹1,800–₹4,800, down from last year’s rates. Retail markets offer a dozen for as low as ₹300–₹500, drawing crowds to areas like Shivajinagar, Deccan, and Baner. Yet, with no government price support, farmers say they can’t even cover production costs.
Artificial Ripening Raises Concerns
With excess stock, some traders are allegedly using calcium carbide to ripen mangoes artificially, affecting taste and quality. Experts advise buyers to check for natural aroma, soft skin, and yellowish edges to spot genuine Alphonsos.
Hope in Export Demand
A silver lining exists as wholesalers report rising export orders from Bangladesh, Malaysia, and the UAE. This could push up prices for premium-quality mangoes soon. However, until May 20, the market is expected to remain flooded, leaving farmers in a tight spot while shoppers relish the seasonal bounty.
