Karachi: The city’s dairy sector is at the centre of a major policy decision after farmers demanded an immediate rise of Rs. 50 per litre in milk prices, warning of protests if their concerns were not addressed.
Dairy farmers, under the Dairy Farmers Association, announced at a press conference at the Karachi Press Club that they are operating under unsustainable losses following the devastating floods that severely impacted the sector. According to the association, the cost of milk production has surged by nearly 30 per cent, leading to estimated daily losses of Rs. 3 billion.
The farmers cautioned that if retail milk prices were not raised to Rs. 270 per litre by October 1, they would stage a demonstration outside the Chief Minister’s House. They further warned that without an increase, they would be unable to provide fodder and essential care for cattle, potentially resulting in widespread starvation and deaths of livestock.
In response to the escalating situation, the Karachi Commissioner convened a meeting to review the pricing structure and finalise a new notification on milk prices. The decision is expected to play a crucial role in balancing consumer affordability with the survival of the dairy sector, which is under severe pressure from rising production costs and natural disaster impacts.
