Ishwardi, widely known for its delicious and juicy litchis, is currently witnessing the sale of immature and tasteless litchis in local markets. Taking advantage of the fruit's strong reputation, some growers are harvesting litchis prematurely in hopes of making higher profits.
These unripe litchis are now being sold across Ishwardi town and nearby markets, with noticeable price differences between urban and rural areas. Many buyers, attracted by the arrival of a new seasonal fruit, are purchasing them at high prices without considering quality.
Although the peak litchi season falls in the Bengali month of Jaishtha, immature litchis have already entered the market during Boishakh. Farmers claim that extreme heat has caused litchis to drop prematurely, but the Agriculture Department says such fruit drop is a natural process.
Experts note that these unripe litchis are sour and lack proper taste, depriving consumers of the authentic flavor.
Despite this, prices remain high. The local Mozafarr variety is being sold at Tk 260 to Tk 360 per 100 pieces.
In Ishwardi municipal markets, sellers often arrange litchis in crates, partially covering them with leaves to make them appear fresh. The same quantity sells for around Tk 360, while in rural markets like Arambaria, prices range from Tk 280 to Tk 300.
A buyer, Jabed Mia, said, "It's a new fruit in the market.
Even though it's not fully ripe, I bought it at a high price for my daughter."
Doctors have advised consumers to avoid eating unripe litchis, citing health concerns.
The Agriculture Department has urged farmers to wait at least 10 to 15 more days before harvesting to ensure proper quality. Officials added that this year saw abundant flowering and fruit setting, and farmers are expected to achieve good yields and profits.
According to agricultural data, litchis are cultivated on 3,100 hectares of land in Ishwardi, producing varieties such as local seed (Mozafarr), Bombay, China-3, and Chili Bombay, which are supplied across the country.
Upazila Agriculture Officer Abdul Momin confirmed that fruiting is currently sufficient and farmers are likely to benefit from a good harvest this season.
