From farm to mandi: Floods disrupt fresh produce trade

The bustling lanes of Delhi's Sabzi Mandis, usually overflowing with voices of bargaining and the aroma of fresh produce, now carry an air of anxiety.

- ANAMTA FATIMA

NEW DELHI: For vegetable and fruit vendors, the recent floods in Kashmir, Punjab, and parts of North India have translated into sleepless nights, mounting losses, and shelves that often remain half empty.

"The floods have destroyed crops. If we buy vegetables and fruits at high rates, how can we sell them at cheaper prices? Customers complain, but we have no choice," said a vendor at the Azadpur Mandi. His frustration echoes through dozens of small traders who rely on daily sales for survival.