DINAJPUR, Jun 01 (BSS): The bustling litchi season has begun in Dinajpur, with all major varieties, including the district's renowned GI-tagged Badana litchi, arriving in local markets.
Wholesale and retail markets across the district are witnessing heavy trading activity as buyers and sellers engage in what locals describe as a grand seasonal festival.
A visit to the Kalitala wholesale market and the town's largest fruit trading hub at Pulhat on Monday revealed vibrant trading activities.
Orchard owners are bringing freshly harvested litchis to the markets, while wholesalers from different districts are purchasing large quantities for distribution across the country.
Popular varieties currently available include Madraji, Badana and China-3 litchis. Other varieties such as Bombay, Hariya, China-2, Mozafari and Kathali are expected to reach markets within the next few days.
Due to recent adverse weather conditions, farmers have started harvesting slightly earlier than usual.
According to traders, Madraji litchis are being sold at Tk 300-350 per hundred, Badana litchis at Tk 600-700 per hundred, and China-3 litchis at Tk 800-900 per hundred, depending on quality and size.
The district's wholesale markets remain crowded from morning until late at night as buyers inspect, taste and purchase litchis before placing large orders.
Retailers are also reporting strong demand despite prices being somewhat higher than last year.
Litchi grower Md. Saker Ali of Sikder village in Sadar upazila said that government officials and corporate buyers traditionally purchase premium-quality litchis directly from orchards.
Garden owners are carefully harvesting and packing the fruit in bamboo baskets for transportation to various destinations across the country.
According to agricultural officials, approximately 20 per cent of Dinajpur's litchi production meets local demand, while the remaining 80 per cent is supplied to other districts.
Additional Director of the Dinajpur Regional Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE) Md. Motahar Hossain said Dinajpur's traditional Badana litchi has received Geographical Indication (GI) recognition, enhancing its market value.
He said that the variety has been exported successfully over the past two years, with shipments reaching France, Canada and Australia last year.
