Scorching Heat and Production Woes Drive Up Chicken Prices in Coimbatore
Poultry farmers in Coimbatore are grappling with soaring chicken prices due to a combination of intense heatwave conditions and diminished production. The summer months typically witness a decline in production as birds consume less feed and drink more water, hindering weight gain.
Swamy Kannan, Secretary of the TN Broiler Co-ordinate Committee in Palladam, highlighted that the situation has been exacerbated by a surge in mortality rates. Heat-related deaths have increased from 5% to 10%, despite precautionary measures such as water sprinklers and constant monitoring.
The price hike has been substantial, ranging from 110 to 120 rupees per kilogram in recent weeks. Wholesale prices have also reached an unprecedented high of 130 rupees this year, resulting in retail prices exceeding 250 rupees per kilogram in several locations.
Poultry farms are ramping up production to meet the soaring demand. Farmers are now raising an additional 20 chicks for every 100 typically bred. However, the outbreak of bird flu in the neighboring state of Kerala has cast a shadow on the market, particularly affecting duck production.
Despite the challenges, poultry owners emphasize that the supply to Coimbatore remains unaffected, with over 2 lakh kilograms of chicken shipped to Kerala and 8 lakh kilograms supplied within the region daily. While the quantity sent to Kerala typically increases during summer, this year has seen no such surge due to the bird flu outbreak.
Hatchery owners have reported a rise in chick prices, especially those supplied to Kerala. The spread of the flu has created uncertainty about increasing stock, although the current supply is expected to remain stable. However, subtle tariff adjustments may be implemented in the coming weeks based on the impact of the outbreak.
