HETAUDA: The Hetauda Cement Industry has been forced to shut down operations due to a lack of raw materials, adding to its long-standing financial difficulties.
The factory, which had resumed clinker production last month, has again halted operations after running out of essential inputs such as coal and limestone.
Assistant Manager Bhaktiram Shrestha said there is no immediate prospect of resuming supply. “Although agreements have been made, contractors have been unable to transport raw materials due to financial constraints, forcing the shutdown,” he said.
According to the industry, around 5,000 tonnes of clinker were produced using available stock, and cement from this output is currently being packaged.
The plant, which has a daily capacity of producing 16,000 bags of cement, has frequently faced disruptions for various reasons. Mechanical issues encountered during clinker production have also led to ongoing repairs.
The situation has further strained workers, with employees reportedly unpaid for the past 10 months. The factory employs 166 permanent staff, around 100 daily wage workers, and 52 security personnel.
Established in 1976 in Lamsure, Hetauda, the industry began production in 1986.
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