KATHMANDU, DECEMBER 24

The Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA) has cut off power supply to two more industries, citing their failure to clear tariffs for dedicated and trunk lines.

The Parasi Distribution Centre of NEA disconnected electricity to Sarbottam Cement and Laxmi Steel. NEA informed that Sarbottam has outstanding dues of Rs 850 million, while Laxmi Steel owes Rs 620 million.

Previously, NEA had halted electricity supply to four other industries for the same reasons.

On Thursday, Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal directed NEA to cease power to non-compliant industries and companies, urging the authority to collect tariffs by interrupting electricity supply. The NEA had faced criticism for allegedly disrupting power only to small industries while allowing larger ones to go without consequences.

The authority had suspended supply to Jagadamba Cement, Reliance Spinning Mills, Ghorahi Cement, and Arghakhanchi Cements, as they had ignored requests to clear their dues.