Bijnor: Low sugarcane production in the district has forced sugar mills to shut down operations earlier than usual. This year, the mills are expected to close operations early as compared to the previous season, reported Live Hindustan.
Despite this, sugar mills in the district have been paying farmers better than last year. As of February 12, they have paid a total of Rs 1974 crore to farmers, compared to Rs 1490 crore during the same period last year.
The early closure of mills will impact the livelihood of farmers and workers dependent on the sugar industry. However, the mills have no choice but to shut down due to the shortage of sugarcane.
Comments from Sugar Mill Officials:
Bijnor Sugar Mill: GM Cane Rahul Chaudhary said the mill will close about a month earlier this year due to low sugarcane production.
Bundaki and Bahadurpur Sugar Mills: Chief General Manager Dwarkesh SP Singh said Budaun Sugar Mill will close in the first week of April.
Barkatpur Sugar Mill: GM Cane Vikas Pundhir said the mill closed on June 11 last year but is expected to close around April 15 this year.
Najibabad Sugar Mill: GM Cane Dr. SS Dhaka said the mill operated until May 23 last year but is expected to close by April 10 this year.
Chandpur Sugar Mill: GM Cane Lalit Tomar said the mill operated until May 16 last year but is expected to close about 40 days earlier this year.
District Chief Development Officer Prabhu Narayan Singh emphasizes the district’s sugar mills’ commitment to early payments and processing, exceeding last year’s figures. Due to reduced production, there is a substantial likelihood of sugar mills closing much earlier this year compared to the previous year.
