In Andhra Pradesh, the lemon sector is facing challenges due to soaring temperatures affecting crop yields. Despite strong demand from northern regions like Delhi, the supply chain is struggling to meet expectations. Lemon prices reached approximately $723 per ton (Rs 60,000) in early April, marking a peak period for growers. However, market sources report a decline in lemon exports from major hubs such as Podalakur and Gudur, as well as from Tenali, Eluru, and Rajahmundry.
Farmers attribute the decline in yields to the intense summer heat, which is impacting fruit production. S. Raju, a farmer from Gudur, stated, "The temperature is unusually high this season, and lemon trees have not borne fruit as expected." Narayana, a trader at Podalakur, noted that exports from Andhra Pradesh and Telangana have dropped from nearly 100 truckloads daily to about 50, citing heat as a primary factor.
Lemon cultivation spans approximately 17,400 hectares across the district, with Podalakur, Venkatagiri, Jayampu, and Gudur being key trade centers. These markets dispatch 15–20 trucks daily, each carrying around 20 tons of lemons to northern markets such as Delhi, Lucknow, and Varanasi, where lemons are mainly used for cold beverages. Despite drought conditions, farmers managed a reasonable yield, but the heatwave has significantly affected overall output, creating a supply-demand imbalance.
Suresh, another farmer, mentioned that while lemon prices usually decline by late June with new crop arrivals, this year prices have remained stable due to limited supply. "Even though the demand is excellent, especially from Delhi and Uttar Pradesh, farmers are unable to fully capitalize on it because lemon arrivals are much lower than usual," he explained.
Source: New Indian Express