LAHORE (Dunya News) – Only five of Punjab’s 41 sugar mills began cane crushing on the government’s notified date, despite clear directives issued ahead of the season.
According to sources, the provincial government had set 15 November as the deadline for all sugar mills to commence operations. Among the mills that started on time is the mill owned by the family of Pakistan’s Prime Minister.
The Cane Commissioner of Punjab had formally instructed all mill owners through a notification to begin crushing without delay. Officials have indicated that operations may be launched against mills that remain closed from tomorrow. The commissioner has also directed mills to ensure full and accurate payments to farmers based on the exact weight of the cane delivered.
Sugar prices spike to Rs.229 per Kg despite government agreement
Sources have warned that the delayed start to the crushing season may trigger a further rise in sugar prices. In several cities, sugar is currently selling between Rs200 and Rs215 per kilogram. Market observers expect an additional increase of three to four rupees per kilogram if crushing does not begin promptly across all mills.
Farmer Ittehad leaders have criticised the delay, saying mill owners have disregarded government orders by failing to begin crushing on time. They claim that by postponing operations, mill owners aim to purchase sugarcane at lower prices from farmers, putting additional financial pressure on growers already awaiting timely payments.