Juicy litchi appears in Rajshahi markets

RAJSHAHI, May 19 (BSS): With the advent of the Bangla month of Joistha, commonly known as 'Modhumash' (honey month), the juicy fruit litchi has appeared in the local markets of the region including the Rajshahi city like the previous years amidst exorbitant price.

Due to its meager quantity, the present price is beyond the purchasing capacity of the commoners. Many seasonal traders set up makeshift shops at different points especially Shaheb Bazar, Bindurmore, Luxmipur Bazar, Sheroil Bus Terminal, Railway station and Court bazaar displaying the eye-catching fruit.

In the advent of the season, every 100 fruits are being sold at Taka 250 to 300 based on quality and size. But its trading isn't remained off despite of the high price as the high class and richer sections are purchasing the fruit whatever the price is.

On seeing the new fruit of the year, many people are seen coming to purchase it but return back failing to synchronize between their taste and capacity.

"Now, I have no capacity to purchase litchi in accordance to my wish in the high price situation and have to wait for some days until its price is reduced," said Nazmul Islam, a resident of Upashahar, who came to Shaheb Bazar for purchasing litchi, while expressing his reaction to the news agency. The sellers said the price is high as the supply is scanty but commented that the price will be reduced to some extent when the supply will be enhanced within the next couple of days.

Dr Abdul Alim, Senior Scientific Officer of Rajshahi Fruit Research Station, told BSS that litchi is grown well in Rajshahi and Dinajpur districts in the country's northwest region but the litchi of Ishwardi is very delicious and famous across the country. In Rajshahi, there are 370.4 hectares of litchi orchards.