RAJSHAHI, June 23 (V7N)– Three consecutive days of rain in Rajshahi have significantly disrupted mango harvesting, leading to a sharp reduction in market supply and a subsequent increase in prices, creating financial difficulties for farmers in the region.

The continuous rainfall since Friday has made it challenging for farmers to pick mangoes from trees, severely limiting the quantity reaching markets. At Baneshwar Bazar in Puthia Upazila, Rajshahi's primary mango trading hub, the scarcity of mango-carrying vehicles on the roads due to the persistent downpour has further exacerbated the supply crunch.

According to local sellers, mango prices have risen by Tk 600 to Tk 800 per maund (approximately 37 kg). Khirshapati mangoes, the most widely cultivated variety in Rajshahi with about 2,765 hectares under cultivation, are now fetching between Tk 2,600 and Tk 2,800 per maund. Prices for other popular varieties such as Amrapali and Langra have also seen similar increases.

Mango farmers lament that this year's Eid holidays and bank closures, combined with the recent rain, have severely impacted mango sales and distribution. Many are suffering financial losses as ripe mangoes are falling from trees due to the rain and cannot be harvested or transported efficiently. While market prices have increased, farmers are reportedly not realizing the expected profits due to reduced yields and logistical challenges.

The Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE) notes that besides Khirshapati, Rajshahi cultivates various other mango varieties, including Langra, Amrapali, Bari-4, and Katimon. The region is a major mango-producing area, contributing significantly to Bangladesh's overall mango output.

Earlier reports indicated that a heatwave before Eid had caused many mangoes to ripen prematurely, leading to a glut in the market and a temporary price slump. However, the current rainfall, while providing some relief from the heat, has introduced new complexities to the harvest and supply chain, leading to the latest price surge. The combination of extreme weather events and market dynamics continues to pose significant challenges for mango growers and traders in Rajshahi.

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