The sugar crisis in Punjab has started to resurface as most of the sugar mills have completely ignored the crushing deadline given by the provincial government. According to sources, 36 out of 41 sugar mills in the province have not complied with the government order to start crushing from November 15.
As a result of the deadline not being met, there is a fear of further increase in the price of sugar. Market sources say that sugar is already being sold at Rs 200 to 215 per kg in different cities, while continuous delay can worsen the situation.
Meanwhile, the Cane Commissioner of Punjab has clearly announced that regular action will be taken against the mills that do not start crushing on time. Officials say that the government is considering strict action against those responsible for the delay in crushing.
There has also been a strong reaction from the farming community. Chairman Kisan Ittehad Khalid Bath said that mill owners are deliberately delaying crushing and trying to force farmers to sell sugarcane at low rates. According to him, this process will further increase the economic difficulties of farmers.
