Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru

Mangaluru, Mar 29: A blistering heatwave sweeping across the coastal city has driven up demand for lemon-based drinks and other cooling refreshments, triggering a sharp spike in prices across local markets.

With temperatures rising steadily over the past week, residents are avoiding outdoor activity during peak hours. Between 11 am and 4 pm, markets have thinned out and bus occupancy has dropped, as people choose to remain indoors to escape the oppressive heat.

Lemon, tender coconut prices soar

The intense heat has pushed people towards cooling beverages such as buttermilk, lemon juice, and tender coconut water, leading to a steep rise in their prices.

Lemons, in particular, have recorded a sharp increase. Retail prices now range between Rs 8 and Rs 10 per piece, while wholesale rates have more than doubled — from Rs 70 per kg just days ago to nearly Rs 150 per kg.

Tender coconuts, another popular summer staple, are being sold at around Rs 60 per piece in many areas, sometimes higher, despite their reduced size.

Demand pushes up summer essentials

Alongside beverages, hydrating foods are also witnessing increased demand. Cucumber prices have risen by Rs 10 per kg to reach Rs 40 per kg.

Typically abundant towards the end of March, cucumbers have been in shorter supply this season, contributing to the price hike. Curd consumption, too, has gone up as people look for ways to stay cool.

Egg prices dip amid falling demand

In contrast to the rising prices of summer essentials, egg rates have edged downward over the past week. Wholesale prices have slipped from Rs 5.40 per egg to Rs 5.20 on Thursday, and further to Rs 5 by Saturday.

The decline is attributed to reduced exports leading to higher local availability, lower consumption during hot weather, fewer omelette sales at eateries due to cooking gas shortages, and a seasonal drop in demand from schools and hostels as the academic year ends.

Heatwave signals possible rain

Despite the intense heat, there are indications of a seasonal shift. Extreme temperatures are often seen as a precursor to rainfall, and recent days have brought cloudy skies and scattered drizzles. On Saturday, some areas even experienced heavy showers, offering momentary relief.

Meanwhile, falling water levels are raising concerns. In the Paduperar region, two out of five vented dams have reached critically low levels.

The mud-built Shettibettu vented dam currently holds only about four feet of water. Water levels in the Malavoor dam have also declined, while ponds and wells across the region continue to dry up.