Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (MS)

Udupi, Sep 21: The city is facing a shortage of tender coconuts. Previously, the supply came from other districts, but this has now stopped. Tender coconut traders in the city are sourcing their supply from Tamil Nadu.

The price of tender coconuts has skyrocketed, and even after festivals like Panchami and Chauti, the rates have not decreased. Locally, tender coconuts were supplied from areas like Barkur and Kundapur. However, due to labour shortages, a lack of interest in coconut farming, and a focus on coconut oil production, tender coconuts are no longer reaching the local market.

Although tender coconuts are primarily supplied from districts such as Tumakuru, Mysuru, Tarikere, Chikkamagalur, and Hassan, supply has dwindled due to low yields and high demand in those areas. As a result, Udupi’s main tender coconut traders are now procuring the fruit from Tamil Nadu. The price of a single tender coconut has risen to Rs 50, while the Gendali variety is selling at Rs 60 per piece.

Banana prices are also on the rise, despite the end of the festivals. Due to lower yields in the Malnad and coastal regions, the supply remains short, keeping prices high. Currently, bananas are being sold at Rs 70 to Rs 100 per kg. Most bananas in Udupi are supplied from Thirthahalli and Shivamogga.