The Punjab Cane Commissioner has announced that strict action will be taken against sugar mills that delay the crushing season in the province, and a fine of one million rupees per day will be imposed on those mills that do not start crushing from today. According to officials, so far 27 sugar mills have started regular crushing, while the remaining 14 mills are under inspection, and further action will be taken if violations of the rules are found.
The Commissioner of Punjab said that timely payment to sugarcane farmers is the top priority of the government, and therefore special teams have been formed to continuously monitor the production, crushing and payment system. He said that due to the delay, sugar prices are being seen to increase; especially in Faisalabad, the price has crossed Rs 200 per kg.
According to government officials, as soon as the new sugar produced from the crushing season enters the market, prices are expected to come down and stabilise. He said that action will also be taken against those who create artificial crises.