Chhath Festival Boosts Banana Sales in Janakpur; Domestic Supply Meets Demand
Summary
Banana sales have surged in Janakpurdham and other Terai-Madhes markets ahead of Chhath as domestic production fully meets demand without imports from India. Consumers, however, say prices have nearly doubled and are urging authorities to control essential festival goods.
Key Points
- Banana demand has risen sharply in Janakpurdham and surrounding Terai-Madhes markets ahead of Chhath, when bananas are offered as key Prasad.
- Traders say no bananas have been imported from India this year, with supplies arriving from several Nepali districts including Kailali, Nawalparasi, Chitwan and Morang-region areas.
- Janakpur Fruit Traders Association President Vishweshwar Yadav says domestic production is sufficient and imported Indian bananas are no longer needed.
- Consumers complain that banana prices have almost doubled this year and want government action to control festival-time prices.
