Bengaluru Fruit Prices Surge by 20-30% Amid Supply Constraints
Residents of Bengaluru are grappling with a significant increase in fruit prices, with most varieties in city markets experiencing a rise of at least 20% over the past six weeks. Traders attribute this spike to seasonal fluctuations and inconsistent arrivals, creating a challenging situation for consumers.
Sharp Price Increases Across Key Fruit Varieties
The city sources much of its fruit supply from regions like Maharashtra, Haveri, Devanahalli, and other parts of Karnataka. As arrivals tighten, prices have climbed across the board. For instance, bananas, previously priced at Rs 40 per kg, are now selling for around Rs 70 per kg, marking a 75% increase. Pomegranates have surged from Rs 100–120 per kg to Rs 160–200 per kg, a jump of 60% or more.
Other fruits have also seen dramatic hikes. Green grapes went up from Rs 100 per kg to Rs 160, apples rose from Rs 120 to Rs 180 per kg, and guavas increased from Rs 100–120 to nearly Rs 140 per kg. Black grapes are particularly expensive, costing Rs 240–280 per kg. Among relatively affordable options, watermelon and muskmelon are selling at about Rs 50 per piece, while sapota ranges between Rs 100 and Rs 140 per kg.
Traders Cite Seasonal Factors and Hoarding Ahead of Festivals
Traders at KR Market explained that the recent spike is partly due to stock accumulation by a handful of wholesalers ahead of the festive season, which has temporarily tightened supply. They also highlighted the seasonal cycle as a major driver of these fluctuations.
Harisha, a fruit trader at KR Market, stated: "We source bananas and pomegranates from other districts of Karnataka, including Hassan. Most pomegranates come from Maharashtra, where prices are already high, forcing us to increase rates here. Additionally, some traders are stocking up fruits to release them during Ramzan, when demand will surge, contributing to higher prices."
Another trader, specializing in apples and grapes, noted that prices for these fruits have risen by 20% to 30% in recent days as they are currently out of season. "I've been sourcing fruits from Hosur for a long time. We aim to sell at reasonable rates, but in other parts of the city, grapes are priced at Rs 200 per kg or more," he added.
Consumer Frustration and Dietary Concerns
For consumers, these explanations offer little comfort. Anupama P, a homemaker from South End Circle, observed the increase everywhere, including on online platforms. "I came to KR Market thinking prices would be lower, but even here, apples are selling at Rs 200 per kg, which is very high. Still, since fruits are healthy, I don't want my children to miss out on them in their daily diet," she said.
Experts Predict High Prices to Persist Until Month-End
Experts suggest that prices will remain elevated until the end of the month. R Selvarajan, director of ICAR–National Research Centre for Banana, explained: "Farmers are increasingly targeting the Mumbai market due to its attractiveness. Bananas are widely consumed, including by diabetics. Karnataka currently has lower supply compared to other states, while demand has risen as more people seek bananas. Supplies are likely to improve in April and May with the new harvest."
G Karunakaran, principal scientist in Fruit Science at ICAR, Indian Institute of Horticulture, emphasized: "Climate plays a major role, with changing weather and soil conditions impacting crops. Production and productivity fell by at least 30%, and when output drops, prices naturally rise—this is evident in bananas, pomegranates, and other fruits. Rising consumer awareness is steadily boosting demand. Storage costs have also increased, impacting fruit prices."
