Dairy farmers in Karachi have demanded a Rs. 60 per liter increase in milk prices, warning that the retail rate could reach Rs. 300 per liter if the government and local administration do not approve a revised price.
The demand comes as dairy farmers say the existing milk price is no longer sufficient to cover their operating expenses. They have urged authorities to address the issue and issue an official notification regarding the proposed increase.
Shabbir Dar, a spokesperson for dairy farmers, said that continuing to operate at current milk prices was becoming financially difficult for producers. He said rising costs were putting additional pressure on the dairy sector.
According to Dar, farmers could independently set the retail price of milk at Rs. 300 per liter if the authorities fail to approve the requested increase. Such a move could have a direct impact on consumers across Karachi.
The proposed Rs. 60 increase would represent a significant change in the price of a basic household commodity. Milk is widely consumed across the city, meaning any increase could affect household budgets, businesses and other consumers.
Dairy farmers have been seeking government intervention over the pricing issue. They want the relevant authorities to review their concerns and formally determine a new milk price through the appropriate administrative process.
Dar also criticized the Commissioner of Karachi, alleging that the administration had delayed the matter despite repeated appeals and meetings with officials. He claimed that instead of holding a formal meeting with dairy farmers, the administration had continued to delay the issue.
The dispute highlights the challenges involved in determining milk prices in a major city such as Karachi. Farmers must manage production and operating expenses, while consumers are also sensitive to increases in the price of essential food products.
A decision by the authorities could therefore have implications for both sides of the market. Farmers are seeking a price that they say would make dairy operations financially sustainable, while any official increase would affect the amount consumers pay for milk.
The proposed retail price of Rs. 300 per liter remains dependent on the response from the government and Karachi’s local administration. Dairy farmers have indicated that they may take matters into their own hands if an official decision is not issued.
For consumers, the situation could lead to uncertainty over milk prices in Karachi if an agreement between dairy farmers and authorities is not reached. Any change in the officially recognized rate would also be closely watched by households and businesses.
The administration has yet to approve the requested Rs. 60 per liter increase based on the information provided. The issue is expected to remain under attention as dairy farmers continue to press for a formal decision on milk pricing.
