Over 415 industrial units begin production in Ludhiana

Shivani Bhakoo

Tribune News Service

Ludhiana, April 15

The state government has allowed industries to start their operation (not mandatory, own choice) while following guidelines to prevent the spread of Covid-19. Over 415 industries have started their production in the city. These industries are both from essential and non-essential sector.

We are receiving many applications on a daily basis seeking approval to run units. Departments like the PPCB, Labour, Factory and Health will give a nod to run factories. Officials/staff of these departments can raid or inspect any factory premises to check if procedure is being followed or not. Mahesh Khanna, General Manager, DIC

If the Department of Industries (DIC) is to be believed, a random checking is being conducted at these units to ensure that the government guidelines are being followed properly.

In garment sector, many units have started making masks and PPE kits, which comes under the essential sector. Even in non-essential sector units, including cycle and auto parts, it is being ensured that labour/work-force has proper sanitation facilities, food, rooms, visit by doctors and maintain proper distance while taking other precautions.

The DIC General Manager, Mahesh Khanna, said, “We are receiving many applications on a daily basis seeking approval to run units. Departments like the PPCB, Labour, Factory and Health will give a nod to run factories. Officials/staff of these departments can raid or inspect any factory premises to check if procedure is being followed or not.”

Though industrialists are finding it difficult to retain labour during this time of crisis, they say production would start if even if returns are minimum. At least overall expenses should be taken care of, they added.

Vikram, one of the cloth manufacturers in the Focal Point area, said, “I paid Rs 6,000 for buying a thermometer. Obviously, we will start production only if we get returns. How can we spend on doctors, labourers stay and food if we don’t get returns? the manufacturer asked.

“Labourers are throwing tantrums at this hour simply because they feel that production has been hit and there are no orders. How can they compel employers to pay their wages?” said Rahul, a migrant from UP. “I have been allotted a quarter on the factory premises where electricity is free. I thank my stars that at this time, my employer is taking care of everything otherwise my counterparts are in trouble because neither can they go back nor they have money to pay room rent, power bills and for other expenses,” he added.