Kathmandu, September 1:

The Morang chapter of the Chambers of Industry (CIM) today met Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda and urged him to seek an immediate solution to the various problems dogging Morang industries. CIM also listed different hazards that the industrial sector is facing right now.

According to a CIM press release issued here, industries are facing hard times due to prolonged load shedding. It added that while things were bearable till some months ago, the situation was getting worse as the damage caused by flood had directly affected electricity supply. The 132 KVA operating line from India to Nepal is disrupted due to flood and a supply of 50 MW has stopped.

CIM also focused on the labour problem and its management. It said, "Although the peace process and restoration of political stability are on their logical course, the industrial sector is not free from violence and is beset with various protest programmes conducted by trade unions."

Pointing out that Koshi Highway had been totally destroyed due to the flood, CIM asked the government to establish alternate routes for transport by building belly bridges and repairing some other roads.

Stressing on the lack of security the industrial sector area and problems caused by frequent bandhs and strikes, CIM urged the PM to declare the industrial sector a politics free zone and provide it security.

The CIM statement added that industrialists and businessmen in the eastern region are donating money to provide flood relief materials and food to the victims.