Pune: Pomegranates, a favorite fruit throughout the year, are now priced as high as ₹500 per kilogram in Market Yard, due to reduced supply and heightened demand.

A shortage of water and torrential rains have affected pomegranate production, resulting in a decline in both quality and quantity. Additionally, buyers from other states have begun purchasing pomegranates directly from farms, leading to a sharp drop in supply at the local market.

The Agricultural Produce Market Committee (APMC) in Gultekdi Market Yard is receiving 60 to 70 tons of pomegranates daily from areas like Baramati, Malshiras, Natepute, and Indapur.

While this volume is steady compared to regular arrivals, traders are noting a significant impact on the quality of the fruit. Of the total supply, only 20% is considered premium-grade, while the rest of the produce is less juicy and smaller in size.

The Navratri festival has further increased demand, particularly as pomegranates are commonly consumed during the fasting period, causing prices to rise sharply. Retail prices for quality pomegranates have now reached as high as ₹500 per kilogram.

Factors Behind the Price Surge

Pomegranate traders, including Siddharth Khaire, attribute the current price surge to two main factors: the adverse effects of rain and water shortages on pomegranate production, and the purchasing activity by buyers from other states who are acquiring premium-quality fruit directly from farms.

This combination has led to a shortage of high-quality pomegranates in the market, driving prices to new highs.