Harsh summer drives ice apple demand as TN traders thrive in Karnataka

Kolar: As temperatures continue to remain high, roadside stalls selling ice apples --locally known as taati ningu -- have become a common sight across Kolar district with traders from neighbouring Tamil Nadu reporting brisk business.Dozens of traders travel from across the state border to sell the seasonal fruit, which is widely consumed during summer for its cooling properties. Also called palm fruit, it is largely grown in Tamil Nadu and parts of Andhra Pradesh and transported to Kolar district.Kolar has witnessed harsh summers over the past few years, with residents turning to traditional summer fruits and drinks to beat the heat. Traders say the demand for ice apples has risen steadily along with the temperatures.Each fruit, containing three seeds, is sold for around Rs 60. Traders usually chop open the hard outer bark on the spot and hand over the translucent seeds to customers. The fruit is known for its watery texture and is consumed as a natural coolant.Sreesha R from Kolar said the fruit is valued not only for its hydration effects but also for its nutritional benefits. "These fruits are rich in vitamins such as A, B and C. They also contain potassium, phosphorus... Arthritis patients need to consume more of these fruits to keep their disease under check," he said.Traders say the business is seasonal and highly competitive. Siva Mani, a trader from Tamil Nadu, said the fruits are brought once every four days and distributed to retail points across the district. "Normally, contractors purchase the crops of the entire season and sell them to traders like us," said Siva Mani.He added that nearly 40 traders are currently operating in Kolar, with similar numbers in KGF, Bangarpet and Mulbagal. The fruit season usually begins in Feb and lasts till early June, after which most traders return to their villages.Local traders in Kolar have also entered the business, though many admit that competing with experienced Tamil Nadu vendors remains difficult.