KATHMANDU: The Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI) has urged the formation of a high-powered commission vested with governmental authority to resolve the persisting conflicts surrounding Dedicated and Trunk Lines.

Amid ongoing disputes over payments for Dedicated and Trunk lines affecting industries, FNCCI has raised concerns about the disconnection of electricity lines for these sectors.

During a meeting with Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ on September 11, FNCCI highlighted these concerns, prompting the Prime Minister to direct the government to find a suitable resolution.

“Despite discussions and assurances in various forums to address electricity line issues, the problems persist,” the FNCCI mentioned. “The disagreement persists between industrialists and the Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA) regarding electricity availability and consumption.”

The Dedicated and Trunk Line issue has endured for a significant period. Industrialists claim to have consistently paid for uninterrupted electricity supply during disputes, with bills settled over the past three years.

FNCCI insists that industries adhering to the Dedicated and Trunk Line usage regulations (based on the T.O.D. meter) should voluntarily manage their payments. They emphasized the need to avoid mandatory payments during uncertain situations or when payments are not due.

“We appeal to both the government and the private sector to form a proficient high-level commission dedicated to resolving this issue,” stated FNCCI.

They have urged for private sector representation in this commission to conduct impartial studies encompassing past evaluations, current scenarios, and an analysis of T.O.D. meters.

Pending a final resolution, FNCCI has urged the NEA and other relevant bodies to reconnect industries’ electricity lines and refrain from cutting off other industrial connections.

“In the current economic slowdown, unresolved industrial issues will adversely affect not just the sectors but also employment and revenue. We trust in the government’s commitment to take substantial steps to resolve this,” FNCCI emphasized in its statement.

For several days now, NEA has continued disconnecting industrial lines despite directives from the Prime Minister not to impose service charges.