Sales at juice outlets soar with rising mercury

Visakhapatnam: Spotting the stalls of sugarcane juice, fruit juices, herbal drinks or tender coconut water these days is much easier than ever before. Those involved in the juice-making business rake in the moolah as they line up make-shift stalls in various colonies to provide respite to the parched throats.

Although peak summer is yet to set in, the humid climatic condition of the city makes one sapped of energy. The situation is even worse for commuters and those who venture out under the scorching heat.

Topping the list of thirst quenchers are tender coconut water, sugarcane juice along with juice made of watermelon and sweet-lime. Besides these, the demand for glasses of 'maredu' and 'sugandi' sharbats laced with 'sabja' seeds is also on the rise.

A few economically backward students find summer as a convenient season to fill their empty pockets. Straight after the college hours, they head to these stalls to make some extra bucks.

Tender coconut sellers witness brisk business these days. K Naidu, a tender coconut vendor says, "We are glad that people prefer to drink coconut water to aerated drinks. The business is progressing with each passing day because of health benefits it offers."

Among other thirst quenchers, sugarcane juice tops the menu. Vendors are glad that they register more regulars at their stalls. N Ramana, a seller from China Waltair says, "Despite the rise in sugarcane price, we did not increase the cost of juice as there is a growing competition in this field."

Some vendors hope for an improved sale in the coming weeks. R Srinu, a watermelon juice stall owner opined that it was from March to June that they make brisk business.

"Many students walk into our stall for a glass of watermelon or sweet-lime juice and the exam time added to business as youngsters prefer to take a break here after completing the exams," he says.

Sharbat sellers also witness a steady flow of customers as most of them consider maredu and sugandi flavours offer a cooling effect and are best suited for the weather.

Dieticians recommend opting for natural juices. However, they suggest keeping a tab on the quality of the ice and water used in the stalls as most vendors prefer inferior variety for to do away with the expenses.