Demand from North sends AP lemon prices skyrocketing

Vijayawada: A sharp surge in lemon prices has triggered a crisis across Andhra Pradesh, with markets witnessing unprecedented rates due to falling production and rising demand. At the Podalakur lemon market in Sri Potti Sriramulu Nellore district, prices touched a record high on Friday, with an 80 kg bag selling for as much as ₹10,000 — levels not seen in the past decade.Farmers, who were struggling with poor returns until mid-March, are now witnessing a sudden turnaround. "There were no buyers and prices were very low just a few weeks ago. Now the demand has skyrocketed," said D Anjaneya Reddy, a local farmer. A large section of growers in the upland region depends heavily on lemon cultivation for their livelihood.Traders attribute the spike to strong demand from northern markets, particularly Delhi and northeastern states. The retail price of a single lemon has surged to nearly ₹5 in several areas. "Nearly 15 lorry loads of lemons are being transported daily from Podalakur to different parts of the country, but supply is limited due to low yield," said M Niranjan Kumar, a trader.The situation is not limited to Nellore alone. A similar trend is being witnessed in the Eluru Lemon Market, indicating a statewide supply crunch. Traders say unseasonal weather and reduced output have significantly impacted availability.Retail prices of lemons jumped to Rs 10 per fruit, and many households removed it from their shopping lists. "Lemon water is considered a refreshing summer drink that restores electrolytes. But poor availability and skyrocketing prices are making us think of alternatives," said K Nandini, a homemaker.With summer demand expected to rise further, both consumers and traders fear that lemon prices may climb even higher in the coming weeks, intensifying the ongoing crisis.