Muzaffarpur: The famed Shahi litchis of Muzaffarpur have arrived in markets earlier than expected this season, drawing large crowds of buyers across the city. With their bright red appearance and improved sweetness following recent rainfall, the fruit has triggered excitement among both consumers and traders.
Sales have begun in several major markets, including Saraiyaganj, Motijheel, Kalyani Chowk, Station Road, Club Road and Tower Chowk. Traders said the current price of Shahi litchis is around Rs 400 per hundred pieces, though rates are expected to ease slightly once larger quantities reach the market in the coming weeks.
Farmers and traders attributed the improved quality of the fruit to favourable weather conditions and timely rain, which accelerated ripening in orchards across the district. Initial projections had suggested large-scale harvesting would begin after May 22, but growers have already started plucking ripe fruit from select trees.
“The recent rain has enhanced the natural sweetness of the litchis,” said Chandu Kumar, a customer at one of the city markets. “The taste this year feels much better compared to previous seasons.”
Vendors said the first batches arriving from orchards in Bochahan and nearby areas lacked full sweetness, but the latest harvest after rainfall has shown noticeable improvement in flavour and texture.
“The fruit is now fully ripe and much sweeter,” said Jagdish Kumar, a litchi seller on Station Road. “Demand has increased sharply after the rains.”
According to traders, harvesting has begun in orchards across Muzaffarpur and nearby blocks, though only limited quantities are currently available. Vishal Sah, a trader from Kanti, said the market is still in its initial phase and a much larger supply is expected within a week.
“At present, demand is extremely high because people are eager to buy the season’s first fresh litchis,” he said.
Temporary litchi markets have also emerged at nearly 48 locations across the district, including Bariya Bus Stand, Government Bus Stand, Railway Station Road, Zero Mile Chowk, Akhara Ghat, Mithanpura Chowk and Hathi Chowk. Smaller rural markets have also become active as the season gathers pace.
Muzaffarpur’s Shahi litchi, known for its distinctive aroma and sweetness, remains one of Bihar’s most recognised agricultural products. The annual litchi season, which typically runs from May 15 to June 20, supports the livelihoods of thousands of families involved in harvesting, packaging, transportation and sales.
Industry estimates suggest the sector generates employment for nearly 2,00,000 workers across Bihar during the harvesting season.
The National Research Centre on Litchi continues to provide training and technical support to farmers on cultivation and processing practices, playing a key role in litchi research and production in India.
