The crushing operations for the upcoming season at Rajshahi Sugar Mill are set to commence on November 29. The mill authorities have completed all necessary preparations for the process. This year, the price of sugarcane per maund has been increased by Tk 20, and sugarcane production in the mill zone area has also grown, according to officials.

Crushing Target and Production

According to sources at Rajshahi Sugar Mills, the target for crushing this season (2023-2024) has been set at 55,000 tons of sugarcane. Last year, 42,962 tons of sugarcane were crushed, which is about 7,000 tons less than this year’s target. The production target for sugar has been set at 4,000 tons.

For the 2024-2025 season, the mill aims to cultivate sugarcane on 6,500 acres of land, with expectations to exceed the production targets.

Increased Price for Farmers

This season, the price of sugarcane has been set at Tk 240 per maund, up by Tk 20 from the previous year’s rate of Tk 220 per maund.

Preparatory Activities

The mill authorities stated that preparatory work, including boiler firing, water trials, and maintenance, began on October 15. Slow firing of the boilers was completed on November 8, while water trials are scheduled for November 24-25.

Production Efficiency

Acording to the mill authorities, an average of 2.4 kilograms of sugar is produced from each maund of sugarcane.

Statement from the Mill Authorities

Rajshahi Sugar Mill's Managing Director, Humayun Kabir, stated, "If everything goes according to plan, sugarcane crushing operations will begin on November 29. The price of sugarcane has been increased to support farmers. We are hopeful of achieving the production targets."

The authorities further revealed that 443 tons of unsold sugar from the last season are still in stock, which will be sold under government directives.

Production Zones

Rajshahi Sugar Mills has nine sub-zones, with Kashiadanga, Naodapara, Mills Gate ‘A,’ and Mills Gate ‘B’ located in the west. Areas like Puthia, Nandangachi, Sardah, Charghat, and Arani are known for good production. The total demand for sugarcane is met primarily from these five sub-zones.