Rising Temperatures Fuel Bean Price Surge in Kolar
Kolar, Karnataka, has seen a steep rise in bean prices over the past fortnight, with retail and wholesale rates climbing from Rs 120 to Rs 200 per kg and Rs 80 to Rs 170 per kg, respectively. The soaring mercury has resulted in a significant decline in bean production, with many plants withering away in neighboring farms, according to Vijayalakshmi, secretary of APMC Kolar. This has led to a drop in daily supply from 40-45 quintals to 25 quintals.
Consumers have turned to fresh and green vegetables as a more affordable option, contributing to the surge in demand for these items. Several religious functions have also coincided with this period, further driving up demand. The supply is expected to face additional challenges as farmers express hesitation in growing beans. Narayanaswamy, a trader at the Kolar vegetable market, noted that even farmers who continue to cultivate beans prefer the ‘farm’ variety over the local variety.
Vinay, assistant director of the horticulture department, explained that many farmers have discontinued bean cultivation due to its high water consumption. With rainfall remaining elusive, farmers are avoiding water-intensive crops like beans. Charithra N, a homemaker from Kolar, expressed shock at the bean prices she encountered in the retail market on Monday. She pointed out that most other vegetables were priced around Rs 40-50 per kg, forcing her to purchase only a limited quantity of beans due to their exorbitant cost.
