The much awaited famous oranges of Nagpur have arrived in the Kalamna wholesale marketyard but excess rains have spoilt the crop to a large extent. It appears that the incessant rains have affected not only the production but also quality of the crop this season.

“It is estimated that the production would be lower by 50 per cent this season. The orange prices are being quoted at Rs 20,000 per tonne to Rs 30,000 per tonne in the Friday auction at the wholesale market,” said Anand Donge, President of Nagpur Fruit Dealers Association while speaking to The Hitavada.

He further said that local farmers are disappointed of the huge losses they have to suffer. It appears that the incessant rains have affected not only the production but also quality of the crop.

On a daily average, about 100 to 150 tempos loaded with oranges arrive in the Kalamna wholesale markeyard. Generally, the orange crop come twice a year. The first orange crop is smaller in size and comes to the market during November to December. The second crop comes in January-February are of bigger size and tastes sweeter as compared to the winter crop, he pointed out.

According to him, there is good demand for Nagpur oranges in the country. At present, the oranges are being sent to Andhra Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh. In retail, oranges are available at Rs 100 for 25 pieces, depending on the quality and locality, he added.