Weather hits Raichur mango crop; output down 50%

Raichur: Mango output in the district has dropped by nearly 50% this season due to adverse weather conditions, dealing a blow to farmers across major horticulture belts.A dip in temperatures during the flowering stage in December triggered pest infestation, while subsequent hailstorms caused extensive flower drop, resulting in poor fruit set.Mango is cultivated over around 1,250 hectares in the district, with Raichur taluk accounting for the largest share. Cultivation has expanded in Chandrabanda and Yapaladinni under the horticulture department's integrated development scheme, improving local availability in recent years.According to deputy director of horticulture Mohammad Ali, arrivals of popular local varieties—Banganapalli, Neelam, Totapuri, Mallika and Dodda Rasal—have begun from major growing pockets.Traders, however, say fruit quality has suffered. Several mangoes lack firmness and flavour, while some are soft inside. Instances of artificial ripening using chemicals have also been reported in local markets.Mangoes sourced from Yapaladinni, Tuntapura, Yeragera and adjoining villages in Andhra Pradesh are currently selling at Rs 60 to Rs 100 per kg at major trading centres, including Station Road, Lingsugur Road and Hyderabad Road. Prices are slightly higher, prompting customers to bargain."The season is delayed by nearly 20 days. Yield is low, sizes are uneven and prices have gone up marginally," said Station Road vendor Narasimhulu YSK.Experts attribute the decline to climate variability. "Overall production has halved this year, though a few growers reported better yields. A mango fair is being planned to support farmers and promote quality produce," said Tippanna Nayak of the Krishi Vigyan Kendra.