Chhattisgarh Mini Steel Plants Halt Operations Over Power Tariff Hike

Nearly 200 mini steel plants in Chhattisgarh have stopped operations to protest a recent power tariff hike. Industry representatives argue that the increased electricity costs make running these plants unfeasible. The shutdown affects over two lakh workers and may raise construction material prices.

Nearly 200 mini steel plants in Chhattisgarh shut down indefinitely starting Monday night to protest a recent increase in power tariffs.

According to an industry representative, the heightened electricity costs make maintaining these plants unsustainable. An official from Chhattisgarh State Power Distribution Company Ltd (CSPDCL), however, defended the hike as insignificant given current inflation rates.

The closure, impacting more than two lakh workers and potentially increasing construction material prices, will continue until the government intervenes, said Manish Dhuppad, General Secretary of the Chhattisgarh Mini Steel Plant Association.