Summer fruits are entering the market in India, but due to limited supplies, the prices are high. This year, watermelon prices have gone up, with one kilogram of the fruit being sold for Rs 20. A medium size watermelon costs around Rs 100. Last year, the same sized fruit was sold for Rs 70 to 80.
Over the last week, the supply has been minimal as the season's initial harvest is just reaching the market. Watermelon is grown mostly in northern districts like Kancheepuram, Tiruvallur and Villupuram. It is grown in some parts of Dindigul and Theni districts as well.
Sales of tender coconut and fruit juices have also increased as people started to feel the scorching heat. M Hari, a tender coconut commission agent from Madurai, said sales have picked up due to the increasing temperature. Around 35,000 to 45,000 tender coconuts are being sold a day in the city. Yet, there is no change in the price as there is an abundant supply from the Coimbatore and Theni districts.
