Fruit prices go up due to shortage of supply at Koyambedu

“Due to the impact of corona, the supply of fruits has decreased resulting in the increase of prices from last week. For the next two months, the prices will remain the same and sale has also come down as customers are not purchasing the fruits. Now, pomegranate is being sold for Rs 150 to Rs 180/kg, pineapple for Rs 45/kg, apple Rs 3,000 to Rs 3,500 (25kg) and grapes Rs 200 per kg,” said S Dhanasekar, Secretary, Vegetable, Fruits and Flower Merchants’ Association.

The prices of vegetables have decreased compared to last week but they are likely to increase once the season begins. “The season for second crops is yet to start, so the prices have decreased. The prices of beans, and peas have increased to 10 per cent, other vegetable prices will increase day by day from March end. Currently, beans is being sold for Rs 30 to Rs 35 per kg, peas for Rs 50 to Rs 55 per kg, tomato Rs 15 per kg, onion Rs 15 to Rs 30 and brinjal Rs 10,” said P Sukumaran, Secretary, Koyambedu Wholesale Merchants’ Association.

The flower vendors in the market saw a fall in prices. Vendors said that for the next two months, the flower prices will not increase as there is no festival and wedding seasons. “The sale has come down from last week despite the decrease in prices. Also, the season for all the flowers have started so the prices will remain the same for the next two months,” said S Mookaiya, Secretary, Koyambedu Malar Podhu Vyabarigal Sangam.

Now, jasmine is being sold for Rs 240 to Rs 300 per kg, tuberose Rs 45 to Rs 60 per kg, damask rose Rs 20 to Rs 30, rose Rs 30 to Rs 40 and marigold Rs 60 to Rs 70.