Pune Fruit Prices Rise as Pomegranate Rates Double to ₹150 per Kg; Oranges, Sweet Limes May Cost More

Fruit prices are rising in Pune as declining supplies at Gultekdi Market Yard push up rates, with pomegranates witnessing a sharp increase and oranges and sweet limes likely to become costlier next month.

Pomegranates that were earlier selling at ₹60-70 per kg are now priced at ₹120-150 per kg, depending on their quality, size and variety. According to Market Yard traders, daily arrivals of pomegranates have dropped from around 15,000 trays to 7,000-8,000 trays, reducing availability in the wholesale market.

Fruit traders at Market Yard, say the widening gap between demand and supply has pushed up wholesale rates, with the increase also being reflected in retail markets. They warned that prices could rise further next month if arrivals decline.

The increase is adding to household expenses, with consumers considering smaller purchases or switching to more affordable fruits. Pune resident Mrunmai Tamhankar said pomegranates priced at ₹120-150 per kg have made regular fruit purchases more expensive, particularly for families buying fruit for children and elderly members.

Traders also expect oranges and sweet limes to become costlier if supplies weaken in the coming weeks. The extent of any increase will depend on market arrivals, produce quality and demand.

Vegetable prices, meanwhile, have not increased substantially, as weak demand has limited upward price movements despite fluctuations in the availability of individual vegetables.