Unseasonal rains in October and November caused widespread losses in Nepal's horticultural production, with the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development estimating more than Rs. 6.6 billion (US$49.4 million) in agricultural damage. While most losses were recorded in the rice sector, fruit and vegetable crops also faced measurable impacts across several provinces.
Between November 1 and 3, rains affected 21,189 hectares nationwide, reducing overall output by an estimated 84,802 tons. Within fruit and vegetable categories, the ministry reported losses in bananas, potatoes, and vegetables. Banana production fell by 132 tons valued at Rs. 1 million (US$7,485). The potato sector recorded losses of 1,949 tons worth Rs. 19.744 million (US$147,700).
Vegetable crops experienced some of the largest losses within horticulture. A total of 6,836 tons of vegetables from 586 hectares were damaged, valued at Rs. 222.3 million (US$1.66 million). In Koshi Province, 2,000 tons from 200 hectares valued at Rs. 40 million (US$299,400) were affected, while Madhes Province reported losses of 4,836 tons across 386 hectares worth Rs. 182 million (US$1.36 million). The ministry noted that fruit and vegetable crops accounted for 99 per cent of horticultural losses during this period.
Rains earlier in October, from the 3rd to the 5th, affected a further 15,499 hectares. The ministry estimated that fruit and vegetable production within broader crop groups, including sugarcane and other commodities, would decline by around 127,383 tons. Losses attributed to October rains reached Rs. 3.71 billion (US$27.8 million) across all agricultural sectors, of which vegetables accounted for Rs. 1.25 billion (US$9.36 million), representing 35.45 per cent of the total.
Source: The Rising Nepal
