The production of the so called Darjeeling oranges dropped by 30% causing shortages on the local market. The drop is due to a lack in organic fertilisers that farmers say does not allow them to spray trees and ensure enough production.
Traders on the West Bengal Siliguri market say they are facing losses because the oranges are not available in large enough quantities. Unlike previous years, about 30-40 trucks would bring the oranges to the market. This has now dwindled to a few small trucks. They blame a lack of government support and climate change for the condition of the orange trees.