CIM calls for immediate restoration of power as NEA cuts supply to industries

KATHMANDU: Chamber of Industries Morang (CIM) has expressed serious concern after the Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA) cut power lines to industries, halting production amid a long‑running dispute over dedicated and trunk‑line electricity tariffs.

In a statement, CIM said the disagreement between the NEA and affected industrialists has hardened into a complex impasse and warned that the government’s repeated failure to deliver an immediate, concrete solution — with the issue resurfacing whenever administrations change — is creating a damaging narrative about the private sector.

“What message will the power supply cut to industries send to national and international investors? Who will take responsibility for the impact of production halts on employment, revenue, bank interest payments, the supply chain and other areas?” the chamber asked, urging urgent action.

CIM called on the Government of Nepal and all concerned stakeholders to immediately restore power to the affected industries and to ensure a swift and equitable resolution of the tariff dispute through coordinated talks involving tripartite stakeholders: the government, the NEA and the private sector.

The chamber said shutting down factories by cutting power supply adds further complexity to an already fraught situation and risks long‑term damage to investor confidence and the regional economy.