Mangoes have witnessed almost 40-50 per cent drop in production as well as quality across the state this year due to extreme weather conditions. Along with the yield, the quality has also come down. The mango crop - varying from Mankurad, Fernandin, Mussarat and Hilario - has failed miserably this year. The experts say that the Mankurad, which should have ruled the markets by April, are yet to pick up, while Mussarat, Hilario are still flowering.
Agriculture Director Nevil Alphonso stated that due to extreme weather conditions, the overall mango production is expected to be down by 40 to 50 per cent this season. He said that unseasonal winter rains and extreme heat during February- March, has hampered the fruiting season and the quality of fruit.
Goa has around 5000 hectares of Mango area with average production of two tonnes per hectare, annually. This year, the figures are expected to be down by 40-50 per cent.
Source: heraldgoa.in