How Watermelon Became Islamabad’s Summer Superfruit
APP
Islamabad: As temperatures soar in the capital, the arrival of watermelon—summer’s beloved fruit—is offering a refreshing reprieve to residents eager to cool down and stay hydrated.
Truckloads of juicy, green watermelons have started arriving at Islamabad’s Sabzi Mandi, signaling the full onset of the summer fruit season. From there, the fruit makes its way to markets and street corners across the city, where vibrant heaps of the water-rich delicacy are neatly stacked to catch the attention of passersby.
“It’s selling very well,” said Yasin Ahmed, a local fruit vendor arranging freshly delivered melons under a bright canopy. “Not just because the prices are reasonable, but also because everyone wants it in this heat. It’s the most in-demand fruit of the season.”
Indeed, watermelon seems to cut across income brackets. Its affordability makes it accessible to nearly everyone, which is why markets are abuzz with customers eager to grab the season’s freshest picks.
“We wait for this fruit all year,” said Yasir Riaz, a resident purchasing watermelon for his family. “Nothing beats its taste in this weather. Now that it’s here, we’ll enjoy it every week.”
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But watermelon is not just a sweet indulgence—it’s a powerhouse of hydration and nutrition. With over 90% water content, it helps replenish fluids lost in the sweltering summer months. Health experts agree on its benefits, but also urge moderation, especially for people with certain medical conditions.
“Watermelon is a great seasonal fruit, low in calories and high in vitamins A and C,” said Dr Arooj Ejaz, a consultant nutritionist at Medicsi Hospital in Islamabad. “It also contains antioxidants like lycopene, which are known to support heart health and reduce inflammation.”
Dr Ejaz noted that the fruit contains citrulline, an amino acid that may help improve blood flow and reduce muscle soreness. However, she cautioned against overconsumption.
“People with diabetes should be careful due to its natural sugar content. For healthy individuals, moderate consumption is safe and even encouraged,” she added. “Eating too much can lead to bloating, indigestion, or even diarrhoea, because of its high water and fiber content.”
Despite the warnings, the fruit remains a seasonal favorite, offering both nourishment and a burst of flavor. With its striped green rind and ruby-red flesh, watermelon not only cools the body but also lifts the spirit—a simple pleasure in the peak of summer.
As long as the heat persists, Islamabad’s markets are likely to remain lively with the sights and smells of this refreshing summer staple.
The feature report was released by APP on April 23, 2025.
