India: Heatwave to hit Bihar's lychee and mango farms

Published Apr 28, 2022

Tridge summary

Bihar's mango and litchi growers are facing significant challenges due to the current heatwave, with experts predicting a quarter or more decrease in yields. The India Meteorological Department reported that 17 out of 38 districts in the state are experiencing a heatwave, with temperatures reaching up to 43.2°C. The early onset of heat and repeated spells, along with high humidity and moisture deficit, are damaging the fruits and causing them to drop. The situation is particularly critical for litchi, with production expected to decrease by 2530%. Experts recommend frequent light irrigation and suggest that the state government should develop a scheme to provide irrigation facilities to these orchards in the context of climate change.

Disclaimer:The above summary was generated by Tridge's proprietary AI model for informational purposes.

Original content

Bihar's mango and litchi growers are struggling from the current heatwave. Experts and farmers in the state have informed Down to Earth that this summer's harvest will not be great. On the contrary, they claim that yields could drop by a quarter or more. According to official data given by the India Meteorological Department's Patna Centre on April 25, 2022, 17 of Bihar's 38 districts are experiencing a heatwave. Banka district reported the highest temperature of 43.2°C, followed by Gaya district with 42.6°C and Patna with 42.4°C. Temperatures of 42°C or higher were recorded in nine districts, including Bhagalpur and West Champaran. Temperatures in other districts ranged from 38 to 41 degrees Celsius. More than 90% of mango and litchi orchards are located in districts that are currently experiencing heatwaves and have been experiencing high temperatures since last month. Early high temperatures, followed by repeated spells of heat, are part of climate change, according to Abdus ...

Source: Krishi Jagran