Industrialists ask for reconnecting power lines

KATHMANDU, OCTOBER 27: Industrialists and business leaders have expressed their concern over the Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA)'s decision to cut power lines to industries.  They did so by holding a meeting today with Energy, Water Resources, and Irrigation Minister Deepak Khadka and Industry, Commerce, and Supply Minister Damodar Bhandari.  The businessperson urged the two ministers to promptly restore these connections to create an environment conducive to smooth business operations.

During the meeting, former president of the Nepal Chamber of Commerce and industrialist Pashupati Murarka stated that the electricity authority has repeatedly cut power lines, causing significant injustice to industrialists. According to him, if the authority provided proof regarding electricity tariffs, they would willingly pay the fees.

In response, Energy Minister Khadka assured that he would discuss the issue of power cuts in industries with relevant bodies, including, the Electricity Regulatory Commission, and the Nepal Electricity Authority, to find a solution as soon as possible. "Neither is it justifiable for the authority to cut the lines nor is it ethical on the part of that industrialists not to pay for the electricity they consume," he viewed.

Similarly, Industry, Commerce, and Supply Minister Bhandari told the business leaders that the Lal Commission has already studied dedicated and trunk line electricity. He emphasized the need to implement the commission's report and move forward.

He pointed out that cutting power lines to industries during an economic downturn could lead to further problems, urging the departmental ministries to address these issues promptly.

The event was attended by Energy Ministry Secretaries Suresh Acharya and Sarita Dawadi, senior energy experts including Prabal Adhikari, and other high-ranking officials and business leaders.