Untimely rain poses threat to mango export

Bengaluru, March 3: The unseasonal rain might leave an adverse effect on the yields of mango in Maharashtra and hit exports of the fruit this season. Farmers fear the rain, if continues, will delay the harvest of the summer fruit.

Rain, thundershowers and hailstorms have been occurring at various parts of the country and the western and south-western states of Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat and Karnataka and others are receiving heavy rain because of a westerly disturbance accompanied by a cyclonic disturbance in the state of Rajasthan.

The meteorological department has predicted more rain in the next 24 hours.

The mango-growing areas of Konkan and other parts in Maharashtra have been particularly hit by the rain. The farmers were particularly looking forward to a profitable season this year after the European Union lifted ban the fruit's import. The government has also completed registration of mango cultivators for exports.

But if the rain gods show little mercy, the mango blossoms will suffer a massive damage, affecting the fortunes of the farmers.

Oneindia News