Lack of cargo flights hits jasmine exports from Udupi to Mumbai and abroad

Mangaluru: The famed Shankarapura (Udupi) jasmine is facing hurdles in reaching markets in Mumbai and abroad due to the lack of appropriate midday cargo flights from Mangaluru International Airport.

Before the COVID-19 pandemic, 300 to 500 ‘atte’ (roughly 1,200 to 1,500 jasmine garlands) were dispatched daily to Mumbai, and occasionally even exported overseas. However, post-pandemic, the absence of midday domestic cargo services has posed a serious challenge for jasmine exporters.

Jasmine, a delicate flower, needs to be dispatched soon after it is plucked and strung—typically in the morning—to ensure freshness. Exporters previously relied on Air India’s midday flight to Mumbai, but the airline has now discontinued cargo transport on this route. Moreover, Air India Express has not yet begun domestic cargo operations from Mangaluru.

At present, while cargo is brought into Mangaluru on afternoon flights, there is no provision to send goods out. Though evening flights allow cargo movement, transporting jasmine in iceboxes—essential for preservation—is not permitted. This has resulted in flowers deteriorating before reaching their destination.

Exporters are now resorting to transporting limited quantities by road using iceboxes. However, this increases the delivery time from 1.5 hours by air to nearly 20 hours, severely affecting quality and market demand.

“Earlier, we could send 1,500 garlands a day. Now, with bus transport, we can barely manage 400. The business that once crossed lakhs of rupees daily has significantly dropped,” said Yashavanth, a jasmine supplier from Udupi.

The price of jasmine fluctuates based on availability and demand, with rates for one ‘atte’ (four garlands) ranging from ₹2,000 to ₹2,500 during peak wedding season. With lower export volumes, growers are also feeling the pinch.

Responding to the concern, airline officials have stated that the process to permit cargo transport on midday flights is underway. Meanwhile, jasmine suppliers continue to request swift implementation to protect their trade and the livelihoods of flower farmers.