Coconut offering on auspicious occasion and at temples has become a rare phenomenon in Srikakulam district, thanks to the skyrocketing prices in the market. The reasons are being attributed to the damage done to the coconut plantations during Hudhud cyclone, which has taken a toll on the production.
Coconuts, which were available in the range of Rs.12 to Rs.15 each in the market, are now being sold between Rs. 25 and Rs.30 each, causing heavy burden on the consumers.
A bag of 100 coconuts, at present, costs around Rs.1,700 to Rs.2,100, depending on the variety in the wholesale market of Srikakulam. Needless to say, the consumers have to pay more in the retail market.
“Coconut prices may not come down in near future, as high rates are prevailing in East Godavari and West Godavari districts, which is considered as hot beds for coconut production, apart from Kerala,” S. Srinivasa Rao, a wholesale dealer told The Hindu.
Thousands of coconut trees were damaged in Uddanam region with the impact of Phailin and Hudhud cyclones. The region comprising six mandals-- Ithcapuram, Kaviti, Sompeta, Mandasa, Vajrapukotturu and Palasa-- has been known as the Konaseema of Srikakulam district.
Coconuts were always available at affordable price, as transport charges are less within the district.
With more than one lakh trees being reportedly damaged in 30,000 acres during the cyclones, the prices are going through the roof in the market.
Increase of labour charge is said to be another reason for the escalation of prices. Farmers are now paying up to Rs. 1.5 for plucking coconut each as the workers have gone on a strike.
Further, the farmers allege that they are not able to go for new plantation, with the delay in payment of government compensation.
“The government is yet to pay compensation for Phailin cyclone which has completely devastated the crop in Uddanam. There is no guidance from the government over selection of saplings which can withstand natural calamities,” said K. Appala Naidu, a farmer from Kaviti.
Heavy crop damage during cyclones have made coconut prices go through the roof in Srikakulam district
