Munugode effect: Demand for mutton increases, so do prices

HYDERABAD: Following a spurt in sales from Saturday, the slaughterhouse at Chengicherla has increased the price of meat. One of the factors leading to the increased demand is believed to be the November 3 byelection in Munugode. A large number of supporters are turning for the campaign and filing of nominations, and they need to be fed.

According to locals, usually prices of goat and sheep go up during Dasara and slump a day after the festival. The latest hike is unusual and it is likely to continue for some more days, many said.

Mohammed Waseem, an agent at Modern Slaughterhouse, Chengicherla, said, “The increase in demand has led to shortage of mutton in the market. From the earlier days when around 7,000 goats or sheep were slaughtered each day, for the past two days the figure has shot up to 11,000.” He said mutton, which was being sold for Rs 600, has cost Rs 800.

Another agent said, “We assume the reasons for reduced consumption of beef could be because of the lumpy skin disease virus. Moreover, it is an established fact that political leaders, who are currently camping in Munugode, prefer meat, especially mutton biryani.”