Apple farmers struggling to reach markets
Summary
Apple farmers in Bajura are harvesting this year’s crop with hopes of better prices and higher output, but growers in Pandusain are struggling to reach markets because the Martadi-Kolti road has remained closed for months. The prolonged disruption is leaving apples to fall in the fields and raising fears of losses.
Key Points
- Farmers in several municipalities of Bajura are harvesting ripe apples and expect higher prices and better production than last year.
- Bajura’s apple cultivation has expanded to around 170 hectares, with more than 2,000 tonnes produced last year.
- Growers in Pandusain are facing losses because the Martadi-Kolti road has been closed since May, blocking transport to market.
- A bridge over the Bauli River remains unfinished despite a contract signed in 2021, worsening the transport problem.
