Bamyan dairy producers seek processing, storage centre — Pajhwok

BAMYAN (Pajhwok): A number of livestock keepers and dairy sellers in central Bamyan say the lack of processing, storage and packaging facilities has weakened the dairy market, urging the government and aid organisations to establish a standard dairy processing and storage centre in the province. Qarghanato area in central Bamyan is a major hub where milk, yoghurt, qurut, cheese and other animal products from different districts are brought for purchase and sale. Livestock keepers and villagers in the area traditionally produce qurut, milk, cream, cheese, buttermilk, yoghurt, chaka and butter, which are marketed through local traders. A resident of Qarghanato, Alauddin, told Pajhwok Afghan News that dairy production in the area was good, but the market remained weak during most months of the year. He said dairy sales increase during Eid holidays when domestic and foreign tourists visit Bamyan, but decline throughout the rest of the year. Alauddin called on the government and aid organisations to establish a standard dairy processing and packaging centre in the area so products could be processed, packaged and transported to other regions with better quality, creating opportunities for livestock development. Meanwhile, dairy seller Mohammad Ibrahim said the dairy market had weakened in recent years due to the deteriorating economic situation of people, while proper storage facilities for dairy products were also lacking. He said…