Short supply ups mango rates

BANGALORE:  The mango traders are disappointed with the low yield of mangoes this season. “The mango season which usually extends till August is nearing its end now itself,” observed the traders.They have resorted to different means by buying North Indian mangoes. Special varieties like Fazil, Chousa, Daseri, Langra and Mauza, all North Indian varieties, can be found in the city. Despite the short supply, the traders promise to hold the ‘Mango Mela’ next week till the stock lasts and have announced to bring the rates down which were going over the roof initially. “We are yet to get a few more varieties from the state, but the mangoes which are usually found at during the  end of the season have come. This is the indication that this time mango season will end soon,” explained the Fruit Merchant Association, Shivajinagar and Cantonment zone’s secretary  Shawnawaz.Horticulture Deputy Director and In-charge of ‘Mango Mela’ at Lalbagh, Hittalmani pointed out that the crop  yield fluctuates every year and this year, the out put has been low. “Places like Srinivaspur, Kolar, Ramanagaram, Chintamani and Chikballapur alone yield around 45 per cent of the crop every year. This year, with no moderate climate which facilitates the yield, the total expected crop will be reduced to 50 per cent,” he said.Hittalmani further added, “However, we will go ahead with the ‘Mango Mela’ and sell all the available stock and the expected crop in June to help the farming community.”