MANSI BHAMBRI | Dehradun
Litchi orchard contractors in Dehradun have voiced their concerns after the recent rainfall and hail causing damage to an estimated 30 to 40 per cent of the litchi produce in the district. They claimed that during this time of the year, litchis are unripe and the unexpected heavy rainfall and hail has not only harmed the fruit but also weakened the litchi stalks, making them prone to bursting once they ripen. If hail is experienced again in the coming days, it is anticipated that the litchi yield will significantly decline, leading to reduced availability in the market this year.
A litchi contractor from the Dalanwala area of Dehradun, Dharmendra Prajapati said that the recent change in weather resulted in a rainfall and hail that affected approximately 40 per cent of his unripe litchi crop. He said that this change in the weather sometimes weakens the litchi stalks. This compromised state could cause the fruit to burst as it ripens.
He said that it is expected that only 40 per cent of the litchis will be available in the market. He expressed confidence that by May 30, if there is no hail or excessive rainfall, the remaining litchi crop will be safeguarded from damage and will ripen properly.
“In my orchard, approximately 55 per cent of the litchi has been affected by the hail and rainfall that occurred in Dehradun a few days ago. The hail, along with rainfall, poses significant threats to litchi. If such conditions persist and another hailstorm strikes, the condition of the litchi could deteriorate further. However, if only rainfall occurs, it is anticipated that the litchi will ripen well during that time,” stated another litchi contractor, Vipin Kumar.
Another contractor, Imran, noted that while some crops have indeed been impacted, only about 30 per cent has suffered damage from the hail. He also said that litchi supply will be sustained as other areas including Herberpur and Ranipokhari, have not experienced hail and the crop there is in good condition. However, he also expressed concern stating that if hailstorms occur in the coming days, it would negatively impact the litchi.
