CNI calls for urgent dialogue with NEA over dedicated and trunk line tariffs

KATHMANDU: Confederation of Nepalese Industries (CNI) has taken serious note of the ongoing dispute between industrialists and Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA) over electricity tariffs for dedicated and trunk lines, the confederation said on Thursday.

CNI reminded that it had earlier recommended the formation of a high-level commission to resolve the long-standing disagreement. An inquiry commission chaired by former Supreme Court Justice Girish Chandra Lal was later formed on the basis of private sector suggestions; that commission has submitted its report to the government and the report has been made public.

The CNI said the prolonged failure to settle the issue sends a negative message both nationally and internationally and undermines the investment environment. With the economy under strain and manufacturing units operating at low capacity, the NEA’s disconnection of electricity lines at some factories has worsened the situation and affected workers, CNI added.

Meanwhile, CNI has urged industrialists and the government to enter into immediate dialogue to resolve the dispute and said it stands ready to facilitate discussions if required.