The question of resumption of seasonal crushing operation by Sindh sugar mills has taken a serious turn following severe warning from the provincial government to the mill-owners to start sugarcane crushing from October 1, to which they seem reluctant.
Official sources said that the Sindh government, in its fresh instructions issued from Chief Minister's office, has asked the mills to start operation from October 1 otherwise legal action would be taken against them.
Sugar mill-owners say that early operation will damage production of sugar because there would be small recovery from the cane.
But the Sindh government says that delay in operation would affect cultivation of wheat due to the continued occupation of land by sugarcane.
Last year wheat production had been affected due to late start of sugar cane crushing.
Sources said that forcing of the Sindh government might ultimately compel the mill-owners to seek relief from the court of law because, as they say, it is not possible for them to go ahead with the operation from October 1.
The Pakistan Sugar Mills Association (PSMA) has already agreed to start crushing season in Punjab and the NWFP from November 1.
However, the schedule for Sindh mills would be finalised in a meeting to be held in Islamabad on Tuesday (September 21).