The Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA) has cut off power to industries with substantial outstanding dues.

The Parasi Distribution Centre of NEA has cut off electricity supply to Sarbottam Cement and Laxmi Steel. Sarbottam Cement faces dues of Rs 850 million, while Laxmi Steel owes Rs 620 million.

This move follows the NEA’s recent decision to halt electricity supply to four other industries – Jagadamba Cement, Reliance Spinning Mills, Ghorahi Cement, and Arghakhanchi Cements – all grappling with overdue payments.

Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal issued a directive on Thursday, instructing the NEA to take a tough stance against non-compliant industries. The directive focused on the need to collect tariffs by employing measures such as disrupting power supply to defaulting entities.