Pune: Rising Temperatures Cause Lemon Prices to Surge in Markets; Further Increases Expected
Pune is witnessing a sharp rise in lemon prices due to soaring temperatures and a dwindling local supply. Over the past two weeks, temperatures have consistently reached 35-36 degrees Celsius, with further increases expected, leading to a significant drop in lemon production. Retail prices currently range from Rs 3 to Rs 15 per lemon, depending on size and quality, and are predicted to rise by 40-50% in the coming weeks.
According to the Agriculture Produce Market Committee, lemon arrivals have decreased to 1000-1500 sacks daily, each weighing 20 kg. A sack is now priced between Rs 400 and Rs 1200, with prices expected to climb as local supplies shrink. Lemons are primarily sourced from Solapur and Ahmednagar, but their production declines during hotter months, exacerbating the price surge.
Experts forecast that lemons could cost Rs 15 to Rs 20 per piece in upmarket areas soon. Last year, wholesale prices for a sack ranged from Rs 2500 to Rs 3000, further driving up retail costs. To meet demand, lemons are being imported from Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, but these are less favored due to lower juice content and a more bitter taste compared to local varieties.
With summer approaching, demand from restaurants, hotels, and juice vendors is expected to rise, further pushing prices upward. Around 50% of lemons consumed are used in the food and beverage industry, significantly impacting market trends.
Lemon cultivation in Pune is limited, with only a small number of farmers growing the fruit. Many face price volatility during winter and monsoon, making lemon farming less viable. Only those who plan their crops for the summer season tend to benefit from higher returns.
Local residents, particularly homemakers, have expressed concerns over the rising prices, noting that summer price hikes are a recurring issue, often exploited by vendors to charge inflated rates.
