Pune: As the year 2024 came to a close, Pune’s non-vegetarian enthusiasts thronged markets on Tuesday (December 31) to buy fish, mutton, and chicken for celebratory feasts. The conclusion of the Margashirsha month on Monday (December 30) prompted a surge in demand, with hoteliers and household buyers contributing to the bustling markets across the city.
Early morning crowds were witnessed at popular markets, including Ganesh Peth Fish Market, Kasba Peth Mutton Market, and Shri Chhatrapati Shivaji Market in Camp.
Other areas such as Karve Road, Fergusson Road, Paud Phata, Vishrantwadi, and Padmavati also reported heavy footfall. According to traders, Ganesh Peth alone received over 50 tons of fish, including 15-20 tons of deep-sea fish and 25-30 tons from Andhra Pradesh.
Pomfret, prawns, Surmai, Rawas, Halwa, and fresh Bombay Duck were among the most sought-after varieties. Increased demand led to price hikes of up to 35%, noted Thakur Pardeshi, a trader at Ganesh Peth.
Year-End Demand Surge for Mutton and Chicken
Prabhakar Kamble, from the Pune City Mutton Shopkeepers' Association, confirmed a rise in demand for mutton, particularly from hoteliers. Rupesh Pardeshi, Director of Pune-Pimpri Broiler Association, stated that around 700-800 tons of chicken were sold in the Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad regions.
Pricing Details:
Mutton: ₹760/kg
Chicken: ₹220/kg
Pomfret: ₹800-₹1,800/kg
Surmai: ₹400-₹800/kg
Fresh Bombay Duck: ₹200-₹300/kg
Prawns: ₹400-₹700/kg
Weather Conditions Impact Fish Supply
Changes in weather have affected deep-sea fish availability, limiting the overall supply. Traders reported a total market arrival of 50 tons of fish on Tuesday (December 31). Despite the challenges, the demand for fish and meat surged due to New Year celebrations, contributing to a price hike of 25-30%.
