Mango festival kicks off today in Multan

Mango Food Street concept would be introduced at the festival

MULTAN: Mangoes grown in Multan are rich in fibre, low in calories and contain a small amount of carbohydrates, calcium, iron, potassium and a little protein, which are highly demanded in the European Union and other advanced nations.

Though these mangoes are recognised as one of the best in the world, Multan has been unable to take the lead from other districts of South Punjab in producing high quality mangoes for export. Therefore, in a bid to attract international buyers to import mangoes from Multan, the city district administration and Muhammad Nawaz Sharif University of Agriculture (MNSUA) had planned to hold a three-day mango festival on July 8 (today).



Ambassadors from western and eastern countries and international and domestic food companies would participate in the event. On the occasion, a mango eating competition among kids would also be arranged in addition to skits and other activities. Besides, Mango Food Street concept would also be introduced in the festival, while a seminar on easy recognition of different varieties of mangoes and dealing with different diseases of the fruit will also be arranged. Various pesticide companies and agricultural tools manufacturers will also set up stalls at the festival.

While speaking to The Express Tribune, Multan Deputy Commissioner Nadir Chattha said the purpose of organising mango festival is to maximise the benefit of mango crops.



“Mangoes grown in Multan are of top quality in their taste and colour. There is a dire need to showcase this special fruit to increase its sale,” the DC said. He added that arrangements were being made for safe exports of mangoes from the fields to markets so farmers could get maximum earning.

Meanwhile, Muhammad Nawaz Sharif University of Agriculture Spokesperson Muhammad Ali Raza said various companies would display their stalls regarding packaging material for the safe export of mangoes during the event.

 

Published in The Express Tribune, July 8^th, 2017.