Heavy rainfall has disrupted pineapple harvesting in Vazhakulam, Kerala, India's largest pineapple-producing region, leading to a sharp decline in supply and a 50% price hike across Karnataka. Wholesale prices have surged from approximately Rs 45 (US$0.54) per kg to Rs 80 (US$0.96), with districts like Bengaluru, Mysuru, Mandya, Tumakuru, Mangaluru, and Udupi all feeling the impact. Transportation routes in central Kerala have been blocked or waterlogged, drastically reducing daily arrivals.
"Kerala's pineapples account for most of the stock we sell. But now, barely one or two trucks are coming in. Whatever little comes is selling fast, and prices have shot up," said Ranjan M, a wholesaler at KR Market in Bengaluru. Karnataka's limited local production from Dakshina Kannada, Udupi, and Chikkamagaluru has not been able to fill the gap, and local farmers lament missing out on the price spike due to low demand earlier in the month. "Now, with rains again affecting Kerala, prices have suddenly gone up, but we have no stock left to benefit from it," said Nagappa Shankar, a farmer in Belthangady.
Alternative sourcing from Tamil Nadu, specifically Coimbatore and the Nilgiris, is also constrained due to poor flowering earlier in the season and additional rainfall disrupting transport. Traders expect the supply shortfall to persist through the week, keeping prices elevated until harvesting and logistics from Kerala normalize.
In Indore, recent heavy rains have similarly affected vegetable supply and pricing. Greenhouse growers in the Nimar region, which supplies over 60% of Indore's vegetables, reported extensive damage to standing crops. Waterlogging and transport delays have led to a sharp drop in daily arrivals at the Choithram market, the city's main wholesale hub.
"The rainfall spoiled vegetables and made it difficult for us to transport them to the city. Prices are likely to remain high until we can ensure a steady supply," said Farooque Raeen, vice-president of the Sabzi Mandi Thok Vyapari Kalyan Sangh. High-tech greenhouse growers are now implementing contingency plans to mitigate ongoing losses.
Consumers are feeling the pinch in both regions. Neeta Joshi, a regular shopper in Indore, said, "I used to spend around US$6 a week on vegetables, but now I'm spending close to US$10. It's really hurting our household budget." Rajesh Verma echoed the sentiment: "Prices for nearly everything are rising, while our salaries remain the same. These price spikes severely impact our monthly budget." As supply disruptions continue, relief for both vendors and consumers may take time.
Source 1: Times of India
Source 2: Indian Express
