A bandh was observed across Srinivaspur taluk in Karnataka’s Kolar district on Wednesday as mango growers protested a severe and unexpected collapse in prices. Called by the Mango Growers’ Association, the bandh highlighted widespread distress among farmers and traders, many of whom rely solely on mango cultivation for their livelihoods.

Shops and businesses remained closed, public transport was suspended, and police presence was heightened to ensure order. Although many educational institutions stayed shut, the Education Department had not officially declared a holiday. Only essential services were allowed to operate during the bandh, which was scheduled 6 am to 6 pm.

Over the past fortnight, Srinivaspur, known as the mango capital of the world, has seen chaos in its once-thriving mango market. From the start of the season, prices have been steadily falling. While unseasonal rains in some parts of the taluk affected crop quality, a broader collapse in market demand has left large quantities of produce unsold.

Currently, a ton of mangoes fetches only Rs 3,000 to Rs 4,000, a sharp decline from the Rs 15,000 per ton farmers received in previous years. The sharp fall in prices and lack of buyers have severely impacted incomes, causing concern for the nearly 70 per cent of Srinivaspur farmers who depend entirely on mango farming.

Farmer leader Chinnaparareddy, president of the Mango Growers’ Association, appealed for public support and requested that the bandh be observed peacefully. He reiterated the community’s demand for the state government to announce a minimum support price to prevent further losses. The protest was backed by several progressive, Kannada and farmer-friendly groups.

Police authorities have directed that while the protest may go ahead peacefully, no business owner should be compelled to shut shop against their will.