Though summers are known for lower production, high temperatures this year have aggravated the issue. Notably, this comes at a time when the farmers are troubled by high fodder and treatment costs.
The milk production in February and March declined by more than four lakh litres, shows data. The milk production in January, February and March are 40,82,438 litres, 35,36,632 litres and 36,51,389 litres, respectively.
The regions most affected are Vadakara, Payyoli, Tuneri, Panthalayani and Thodannur. Meanwhile, hilly regions of the district remain unaffected. Koduvally, Kundamangalam, Balussery, Kunnumal and Perambra have not witnessed a drastic decline.
According to the animal husbandry department, the reasons behind lower milk production are reduced water content in fodder for cattle and their body. Similarly, diseases and an unbalanced diet will also result in lower milk production. District Animal Husbandry Officer Dr K Remadevi has urged the dairy farmers to take proper measures to ensure proper ventilation in sheds and to give more water to the cattle.
