Sindh's mango yield may wither by 50%

Climate change and persistent water shortages are threatening to reduce this year's mango harvest by up to 50 per cent in Sindh. Farmers, contractors, and traders are bracing for huge financial losses amid fears of delayed ripening and widespread damage to orchards across the province.

Recent extreme weather events, including heavy storms and erratic temperature patterns, have exacerbated the situation, causing destruction to mango orchards in Hyderabad, Tando Allahyar, Sanghar, Mirpurkhas, Shahdadpur, Tando Adam, Nawabshah, Sukkur, and Jamshoro districts.

Despite favourable weather conditions in March, an unexpected drop in nighttime temperatures led to mango blossoms withering prematurely. This was followed by intense heatwaves and prolonged drought, which impacted fruit development, resulting in undersised mangoes. The recent onslaught of storms and heavy winds has inflicted further damage, leaving many orchards in a state of near ruin.

According to agricultural experts, the cumulative impact of climatic disruptions and water scarcity is expected to reduce mango production in Sindh by at least half. Moreover, the ripening period of the crop may be delayed by 20 to 25 days, affecting the overall supply chain and potentially disrupting export schedules.

The crisis has hit contractors especially hard. Many who had leased orchards in anticipation of a profitable season are now being forced to abandon their agreements, incurring losses and forfeiting advance payments. The situation is likely to have a cascading effect on the local economy. With reduced yields and supply constraints, mango prices in the domestic market are expected to surge.

Export volumes may also decline, affecting Pakistan's position in the global mango trade.