The cash crop of Darjeeling Oranges has been adversely affected due to fungus and pests in this winter. The cost of the Oranges could go high after fungus and pests have destroyed the crops following which the production went down to almost 70 per cent.
After visiting the Orange orchards of Mirik. Orange growers from Darjeeling hills are very disappointed after the Orange yield dropped down due to pests, fungus and appropriate atmosphere and climate.
Meanwhile, the adverse affect has been seen in the markets of Siliguri where the price of the Oranges has risen to almost double in comparison to last year. Farmers from Mirik Busty, Ghayabari and Sitong of Kurseong sub-division, Kalimpong, Magarjung, Mongpong and other parts of Darjeeling hills have suffered a huge loss after the production went down due to diseases.