Kathmandu, Nov 3: The Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI) has proposed a solution to resolve the long-standing dispute over electricity tariff arrears related to dedicated and trunk line feeders.
Prime Minister Sushila Karki held a discussion on Monday with Finance Minister Rameshwor Khanal, Energy Minister Kulman Ghising, Minister for Industry, Commerce, and Supplies Anil Sinha, Chief Secretary Ek Narayan Aryal, secretaries from various ministries, and FNCCI President Chandra Dhakal to address the issue.
According to FNCCI, during the meeting, a middle-path proposal was presented suggesting that one installment — equivalent to one of the 28 installments previously agreed upon for clearing arrears — be treated not as a payment but as a “disputed deposit.” Once the industries deposit this disputed amount, the electricity lines that were disconnected by the Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA) could be reconnected.
As per the FNCCI statement, after depositing the disputed amount, industries would have the option to seek a review and pursue other legal remedies. The concerned industries could also submit their objections and related details in writing to the NEA while depositing the amount.
Currently, NEA has disconnected power lines to around two dozen industries, citing non-payment of the premium charge for using dedicated and trunk lines. With the closure of industries, more than 25,000 workers and employees have been forced to take leave and without pay. Trade union leaders have also warned the government and the Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA) of launching a nationwide strike if the issue is not resolved soon. #nepal #NEA #industry
