Sales plummet

The relentless heatwave gripping the city has dealt a severe blow to local fruit and vegetable vendors, leading to a sharp decline in sales and mounting challenges in preserving perishable produce.

At the bustling Vashi Sector-1 market, fruit vendors lamented the dwindling number of customers braving the scorching temperatures. With people opting to remain indoors to escape the blistering heat, foot traffic at the market has plummeted, severely impacting sales. Mangoes, a seasonal favourite, are particularly affected, as the need for room temperature storage clashes with the sweltering conditions, causing rapid spoilage and substantial losses for vendors.

Sunita Devi, a seasoned vegetable seller in Koparkhairane, voiced similar struggles, citing the accelerated spoilage of produce exacerbated by the extreme heat. The imperative to sell before items perish has forced vendors to slash prices, further denting already thin profit margins.

Beyond financial strain, vendors grapple with the physical toll of prolonged exposure to scorching temperatures. Mrs. Sunita highlighted the dual challenge of enduring the oppressive heat while enticing hesitant customers to navigate the market. Despite the daunting conditions, vendors persevere, recognizing their trade as their sole livelihood.