People turn to fruits and juices to combat scorching heat in Erode

Beat the heat with fresh fruits and juices as temperatures soar, leading to increased demand and temporary fruit stalls.

As temperatures continue to soar, people are increasingly turning to fresh fruits and juices to stay hydrated.

With several areas in the district experiencing temperatures of over 37 degrees Celsius the past week, the district administration has advised residents to avoid going outdoors between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. With people rushing to beat the heat, the past week has also seen an increase in the sale of watermelon, sugarcane juice, pearl millet porridge (kammankoozh), buttermilk, tender coconut and other fresh juices. Temporary fruit stalls have also sprung up across the city, particularly near educational institutions. Since nutritionists recommend incorporating fruits into daily diets, the sale of oranges and cucumbers, rich in water content, has surged.

Sugarcane juice, an affordable refreshment, is now in high demand, said a vendor on Karur Road. Business has picked up by 30% in one week and is expected to improve in the coming weeks. Previously, fruits and juices were sought after mainly during Kathiri Veyil, which usually occurs in May. However, temperatures crossed 39 degrees Celsius in Erode in February 2024 and reached 43 degrees Celsius in April 2024. “Searing heat persists now even before the start of summer,” said V. Gopalakrishnan of Sampath Nagar. He emphasised that people must adapt to climatic challenges, prioritise their health, and stay hydrated until the end of summer.

Local juice vendors reported that customers prefer lemon juice and other varieties, while many opt for seasonal fruit-based juices like watermelon. Meanwhile, people have expressed concern over the rising price of tender coconut, which has increased by over 40%.