Chennai: Amid Milk Shortage Due to Cyclone, 5000 Packets Found in Canal Raise Questions

Chennai: While Chennai and rest of Tamil Nadu are still grappling with the aftermath of Cyclone Michaung-induced heavy rainfall, including a sate-wide milk shortage, around 5,000 packets of milk were found dumped in a canal near an empty space at West Tambaram in Chengalpattu district on Saturday. The Tambaram Corporation in Chennai's suburbs has issued a clarification saying that the milk packets were not part of relief materials supplied to the public in the wake of the rainfall.

Local media channels shed light on the incident in the Erikarai area of Vaigai Nagar extension which in turn raised serious questions, given that, residents of several pockets in Chennai and its suburbs have been struggling to buy milk.

Upon receiving this information, the TBM Corporation Commissioner visited the spot, she informed that these milk packets were not part of relief measure supplied to the public by the civic body. The packets were found to have an expiration date of Dec 4.

The corporation also noted that the packets found were not just those of Aavin, the indigenous milk brand of Tamil Nadu Cooperative Milk Producers’ Federation Limited, but of other private brands.

What Led to Milk Shortage in Chennai?

Tamil Nadu Milk Producers Cooperative Society Director explained that Aavin typically sells 15 lakh litres of milk daily in the city and surrounding areas. Besides, over 6,600 kg of milk powder from other districts is being supplied. However, due to the disruptions caused by Cyclone Michaung, the distribution of milk was affected, leading to the unfortunate disposal of excess supplies.

The milk shortage was due to logistics issues like supply vehicles that were unable to reach the city. As a result, the milk packets were not getting delivered to the booths. However, the situation worsened after people began panic buying.

Tamil Nadu Milk and Dairy Development Minister Mano Thangaraj said that Chief Minister MK Stalin has urged private milk suppliers to increase overall milk supply.