Kandahari Anar dominates fruit markets in Quetta
News Desk :
Known as Kandahari Anar, the ruby-red juicy pomegranates dominate fruit markets in Quetta, the capital of Balochistan province these days. From shops to footpaths, Kandahari Anar is on display by sellers to attract shopkeepers.
“This is very lovely fruit”, Niaz Khan, a young man purchasing pomegranate told Quetta Voice. Like Khan, dozens of Anar lovers were searching for quality Anar in Quetta’s Kasir Road, the main fruit and vegetable market located in the heart of Quetta.
“Anar now an affordable fruit”, Adam Shah, one of the young sellers in Kasi Road asserts. He said per kg Anar available from Rs. 100 to 250 in the market. Its prices vary in terms of quality and color, Mr. Shah mentioned.
“Aik Anar Sao Beemar”
A common saying, “Aik Anar Sao Beemar” (One Pomegranate for 100 patients”. The wooden carton contained 14kg to 16 kg fruit while the cardboard carton contained eight kilos of best quality pomegranate. They said its price had come down due to increased supply as last year it was sold around Rs200 per kilo.
Shopkeepers complain that the coronavirus has also affected the sale of Anar in the market. “Some people say it affects throat and causes coronavirus”, Adam Shah said.
Anar being exported to Lahore, Karachi and Islamabad
Kandahari Anar packed in wooden cartons exported to Lahore, Karachi, and Islamabad from October to December. The season starts from September to December.
Shopkeepers said Anar production in the Afghan province of Kandhar has increased this year. “This is the reason that Anar is cheap here”, another Anar seller Niamatullah mentioned. You could not buy this red-juicy anar in Rs. 300 had there been less production in Kandahar Afghanistan, he argued. Good in taste but it also a source of income.
Kandahari Anar dominates fruit markets in Quetta
