Jaipur: Mango lovers in the city are facing limited choices this season as unseasonal weather in key producing states has delayed arrivals, traders at Muhana Mandi said, adding that a full range of varieties is expected only after May 15.Currently, only Safeda, Kesar and small quantities of Totapuri mangoes are available in the wholesale and retail markets.During TOI’s visit to the wholesale fruit market, Thursday, traders said Safeda remains the most common variety. Anwar Ali, a wholesale dealer, said, “Safeda is being sold at Rs 40 to Rs 60 per kg in wholesale markets, while retail prices range between Rs 80 and Rs 100 per kg.”Premium Alphonso mangoes from Maharashtra have started arriving, though in limited quantities. “It is currently priced at Rs 100 to Rs 150 per kg in wholesale and Rs 200 to Rs 250 per kg in retail markets. In the coming week, the supply of Alphonso will increase from Ratnagiri (Maharashtra) and Gujarat,” said a trader.Kesar mangoes from Gujarat are also available. Ramjilal Chaudhary, another trader, said, “Kesar is presently being sold at Rs 80 to Rs 100 per kg in wholesale and is available at Rs 120 per kg in the retail market.”Traders attributed the delay to adverse weather conditions, including dust storms, hailstorms and rainfall in Gujarat, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh, which disrupted harvesting and transport.Mohit Narang, a wholesale dealer, said more popular varieties are on the way. “At present, Dussehri from Gujarat is coming. Dussehri from Uttar Pradesh and Langra will start arriving from May 15 onwards. By May 20, every variety is expected to be available,” he said.On quality, traders said rising temperatures will improve taste. “Heatwave conditions help mangoes become sweeter. Good heat improves taste, especially in Safeda,” said Prashant Samtani.Customers, however, are waiting for more options and better prices. Ramesh Sharma said, “Prices are still high in retail markets and only a few varieties are available. We are waiting for Dussehri and Langra, when rates usually become better.”With peak summer approaching, traders expect supplies to stabilise in the next two weeks, easing prices and boosting demand.
