Pune: The ongoing rains across Maharashtra, including Pune district, have significantly affected the arrival of agricultural produce at the Gultekdi Market Yard.

On Thursday (July 25), traders reported a 30-35% drop in the arrival of fruits and vegetables. Despite the reduced supply, prices have remained stable due to the low turnout of buyers, attributed to the persistent rains.

The heavy downpour on Wednesday night exacerbated the situation, further impacting the arrival of agricultural produce. Compared to the previous week, Thursday's average arrival saw a sharp decline of 30%. The rain on Thursday is expected to affect the arrival of produce on Friday as well.

Continuous rains have led to a significant decrease in the number of customers purchasing agricultural produce in the city. With fewer buyers in the market, a substantial amount of produce remains unsold in many stalls, causing considerable losses for farmers and traders. Leafy vegetables like coriander, fenugreek, and spinach have been particularly affected, with many reported to have spoiled.

Vilas Bhujbal, former president of the Traders Association said, "The rains are ongoing everywhere, resulting in reduced harvesting and lower arrivals. Many vegetable vendors are selling their produce on the streets. Consequently, more than half of the shops are closed today, leading to reduced purchases.

There has been no increase in prices. The arrival of agricultural produce will return to normal within two days after the rain stops."

Balasaheb Konde, Head of the Fruits and Vegetables Department, Agricultural Produce Market Committee added, "Due to the rain, the arrival at the Market Yard dropped by 30% on Thursday. Although the arrival is low, the prices of vegetables are stable. Fewer buyers came to the market due to the rain."