The extreme conditions in the grape growing belts of Indian districts like Niphad and Dindori have badly affected the vineyards. Many grape growers from the district have reported cracking of the fruit.
As the cold affects the growth of sugar ingredients in the fruit, grape growers in the district have stopped harvesting. They also fear that the export quality of the grapes may be affected.
The minimum temperature of Nashik city suddenly dropped by 5.8oC on Saturday, settling down at 4oC, as against 9.8oC on Friday. The cold waves continued on Sunday, which recorded the minimum temperature at 5oC.
The minimum temperature in Niphad dropped to 3oC on Saturday, as against 6oC on Friday. The growth of berries gets affected if the minimum temperature goes below 6oC and fruits get cracked if it the minimum temperature goes below 4oC.
The major grape harvest season begins from February, but the grape season has been at stake due to sudden drop in minimum temperature. The grapes in vineyards, which are ready for harvest, are likely to develop cracks.
Timesofindia.indiatimes.com reported on officials saying that they have received reports of the fruit developing cracks, however, it will take at least one more week to access the damage completely.
