Srinagar, Mar 30 (KNS): This Ramadan, Kashmir witnessed record-breaking fruit consumption, with people consuming dates, watermelon, bananas, and other fruits worth over ?167 crore.
According to data the Kashmir Valley Fruit Growers-Cum-Dealers Union, the Parimpora fruit mandi in Srinagar saw an influx of fruit truckloads throughout the holy month. Sales were significantly higher than last year, when rumors about chemically treated watermelons had affected demand.
Watermelon remained the most consumed fruit, with 60 truckloads arriving at the mandi daily. Each truck was valued at around ?4 lakh, bringing the total watermelon consumption to ?72 crore. Bananas also saw a sharp rise in demand, with 30 truckloads arriving daily, amounting to ?65 crore in sales.
Dates, a staple for breaking the fast, were consumed in large quantities.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp ChannelThe total consumption was estimated between ?25 crore and ?30 crore, with varieties like Mejdool, Ajwa, and Kalmi being the most popular choices.
Apart from these, melons, grapes, and papayas were also in high demand. The mandi received around 30 truckloads of melons daily, each worth ?5 lakh. Papayas saw increased demand, with 10 truckloads arriving per day, each valued at ?3 lakh.
Despite moderate temperatures, watermelons remained Kashmir’s favorite fruit. Traders said most watermelon consignments came from Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Karnataka. The affordability and refreshing nature of the fruit made it a staple at Iftaar gatherings across the Valley. (KNS)