Newsreport

 The unavailability of quality coal and the lockdown impact cement production and cause a shortage in the country

By Choden Lepcha

The shortage of cement in the country is having an impact on the construction sector and private builders. The shortage may ultimately lead to cost escalation, low-quality work at construction sites, and black businesses.

It was learned that the biggest issue in the future would be the availability and cost of coal. The cost escalation of low ash coal is of serious concern, although there is no change in rate with SMCL coal.

The cement plants will suffer from serious implications in the long run if the situation does not improve. The price of coal is almost increasing by 100 percent. Cement distributors across the country are not able to meet the demand with what they get from the cement depot

The Penden Cement Authority Limited (PCAL) had no production for quite some time due to maintenance and restoration works in the factory. However, it is expected to resume the production of cement shortly.

An official from PCAL said that the shortage of quality coal and the lockdown has impeded work, which was scheduled to resume on 15 March.