Hubballi: Severe drought conditions and rising mercury levels across the state have pushed up demand for tender coconuts, triggering a sharp increase in prices across the city.Tender coconuts are currently being sold at Rs 60 each at retail outlets. In the wholesale market, prices are in the range of Rs 42 to 48 per piece, with supplies being brought in from Maddur, Davangere, Shivamogga and other places.Traders and vendors said the ongoing heat has led to a steady rise in consumption, with people turning to tender coconuts for relief during the day. The higher demand has coincided with constrained availability, adding pressure on wholesale and retail rates.Vendors indicated that most of the stock reaching the city markets is being imported from outside the state, and the increased dependence on such supplies has also influenced prevailing prices.Husain Sab, a tender coconut trader in Hubballi, said that sales volumes remain high despite a rise in prices. More than 10,000 pieces are being sold every day in the Hubballi market, reflecting sustained consumer demand. He also said there’s brisk sale from early morning onwards, with many buyers opting for tender nuts even at higher prices.Alongside the imported stock, some vendors are also selling local tender nuts sourced from Saundatti, Munavalli, Jamakhandi and other nearby places. This local produce is being sold for Rs 35 a piece, offering a cheaper option for buyers. However, vendors and customers noted that the quantity of water in these local tender nuts is comparatively low, making these less popular among buyers.With the heat continuing and drought conditions persisting, vendors expect demand to remain strong in the coming days. Traders further said pricing trends will largely depend on supplies arriving from Maddur, Shivamogga and other sourcing points, as well as availability from Saundatti, Jamakhandi and nearby areas.Vendors, meanwhile, maintained that rates have moved northwards in line with procurement costs and demand.
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