Jul 09, Kathmandu - The government is set to introduce price controls following a sharp increase in mutton prices in the market.

In recent weeks, the price of mutton in Kathmandu has soared to as high as NPR 1,600 per kilogram. Traders have attributed this to artificial scarcity, prompting the Ministry of Agriculture, Forest, and Environment to prepare measures to regulate prices.

The demand for mutton has surged, particularly as a substitute for chicken amid fears of bird flu. Traders, taking advantage of the situation, have increased prices by NPR 300 to 400 per kilogram. Some meat shops have even reported shortages of goats.

Meanwhile, Minister Gita Chaudhary of the Ministry of Agriculture, Forest, and Environment expressed serious concern over the rising market prices. According to her secretariat, the ministry has already collected detailed data on the actual market conditions and prices.