Storm impact: Blackberry and blackcurrant to cost more this season

Agra: There is bad news for people waiting for blackberry and blackcurrant this season as high speed winds accompanied by rainfall have caused major damage to these fruits.The storm on April 11, May 2 and May 9 has destroyed gardens of blackberry and blackcurrant in around three dozen villages of three blocks, leading to distress among local farmers.According to horticulture department records, in Agra district, blackberry and blackcurrant are cultivated in around 400 hectare of land in Baroli Ahir, Akola and Achnera blocks.According to traders, there will be shortage of these two fruits this season. According to an estimate, business of more than Rs 5 crore is likely to be affected. “Even if these fruits are available in the market, their prices will be higher than last year,” a trader said.A farmer from Bhandai village in Baroli Ahir block said that blackberry and blackcurrant is cultivated every year in summers , As Reported By TOI.

According to the Newspaper,“There are more than 25,000 trees of blackberry in the village. Almost every non-farming family is involved in the business of producing and selling these fruits. The business is worth Rs 1.5 crore.Bhandai-based farmer Rameshwar Singh said, “Every year, blackberry and blackcurrant produced here is taken to Delhi and Haryana and is sold in major markets there.