KARACHI: The significant reduction in routine consumption of fresh milk owing to the closure of tea shops in all areas of Karachi has pushed the prices of milk downward.

Abdul Wahab, a dairy farmer and wholesale supplier of milk, said that consumption has decreased due to closure of tea shops and reduction in use of other fresh milk products.

To a question about any problem in smooth supply of milk to the city, he commented that lockdown has caused some issues related to transportation but overall the situation is satisfactory.

All tea shops and stalls and retailers of lassi are closed due to lockdown by the government to contain coronavirus.

Mohammad Ramzan, a retailer of milk, said that almost 30 to 40 per cent reduction has been made in retail prices of milk as now the commodity is being sold for as low as Rs70 per kg against its normal price of Rs110 per kg in a matter of two days.

The retailers have also placed banners and posters on their shops inscribed with curtailed prices of milk to attract customers.

Many retailers have advertised special offers to attract and persuade customers in order to increase their sale. Some vendors are giving 250 to 500 grammes milk free with one kilo of milk.

Published in Dawn, March 26th, 2020