PIONEER EDGE NEWS SERVICE/ Dehradun
With the change of season triggering a spike in viral fever, dengue and swine flu cases, the demand for coconut water has shot up in Dehradun, leading to inflated pricing by vendors across the provisional State capital. On the other hand, doctors state that there are options to coconut water which are equally or even more beneficial.
Coconut water vendors in most localities of the city are charging arbitrarily to make the most of the lack of choise of those wanting the product due to health reasons. While some are selling one piece for Rs 80, others are charging Rs 90 to Rs 100, citing high demand due to viral infections. Locals have expressed concern over the varying rates and the lack of sensitivity even when it comes to ailments. Many said that there is no fixed price and vendors are taking advantage of the seasonal illness.
Vendor Vishnu Dev said that demand has increased manifolds recently. “Viral infection has become common nowadays and people are consuming more coconut water to keep their immunity good. I am selling one coconut for Rs 90,” he said.
Another seller Mohan Kumar said that he is selling a piece for Rs 80 currently. “The rising demand affects the price and the price is expected to rise further within a few days,” he said.
Meanwhile, experts have clarified that the belief that coconut water heals viral infection is a myth and that liquid intake in any form is what matters. Senior physician at Deen Dayal Upadhyay District Hospital, Dr Praveen Panwar said that during viral infection, among others, the taste of individuals becomes bitter and they find it difficult to drink plain water, which is already tasteless. “A liquid diet plays an important role. Doctors often advise patients to increase liquid intake through ORS, Nimbu Pani and coconut water. But people have developed a mentality that coconut water increases immunity and they prefer it. That coconut water provides special nutrition in infection is just a myth. Any infection is cured only by taking more liquid. Instead of buying costly coconut water, people can drink ORS and Nimbu Pani, which is best to increase liquid intake and prevent dehydration during illnesses and other viral infections,” he said.
