Pune's pre-monsoon rain threatens onion harvest

Unexpected pre-monsoon rainfall on Friday caused significant difficulties for onion farmers in rural Pune, potentially leading to crop losses during the harvest's final stages. Farmers in Junnar, Ambegaon, Shirur, and Daund tehsils struggled to protect their harvested onions from the rain, with many unable to transport the produce to markets due to a lack of storage. Officials estimate potential losses of 10-15% for some farmers. The India Meteorological Department predicted more light rain in the coming days, as the harvest season nears its end, with approximately 80% of the harvest completed. This year's onion season has been favorable, with better yields reported compared to last year.