PONDA, Jan. 28 -- Team Herald

Skyrocketing coconut prices have become a pressing issue, affecting farmers, vendors, and consumers alike. Discussions about the sharp price hike are rampant in markets and public places in Ponda, with the price hike being attributed to low production caused by prolonged rains, diseases, and animal interference.

According to sources at Ponda's Marketing Yard, farmers have reported a one-third drop in coconut yields this season. Prolonged rainfall during the monsoon, diseases such as bud rot (locally called Suyaro), and insufficient maintenance of trees have contributed to the crisis.

Farmers face increased difficulties due to the high cost of maintenance and coconut harvesting. Many are reluctant to hire p...