As heatwave conditions intensify across northern and central India, horticulture experts in Prayagraj are urging farmers to adopt “fruit bagging” techniques to protect mangoes from extreme temperatures. With mercury levels touching 45 degrees Celsius, experts warn that prolonged exposure to intense heat can damage fruits, trigger premature ripening, or cause mangoes to fall from trees before maturity.

Senior horticulturist Vijay Kishore Singh said covering mangoes with protective bags helps reduce the harmful impact of rising temperatures. He also advised gardeners and farmers to maintain soil moisture, wash plant leaves in the evening, and use shade nets for rooftop and kitchen garden plants to prevent them from drying out.

Meanwhile, climate experts have warned that a possible “Super El Niño” this year could worsen heatwave conditions and weaken the monsoon during June to August. Despite forecasts of an early monsoon arrival in Kerala, many regions continue to reel under scorching summer temperatures.