Crusher industries have been staging protests since April 29, affecting development work. Cabinet decisions on July 11, 2013 and September 2, 2013 have barred crusher factories from operating within 500m from highway and river banks, within 100m from high-tension power lines and within 2km from educational institutions, hospitals, religious and cultural sites, places with archaeological importance, security agencies, forest and conservation areas, and densely populated areas. As most of crusher factories are located within the set limits, they have been demanding the government roll back its decision.

FNCCI said the government’s standard led to closure of many factories having huge investment. Agitating crusher operators have claimed Rs 80 billion has been invested in the sector.

“At a time when the country should focus on infrastructure development, the government has tried to sideline the crusher industry which produces the essential raw materials for development work,” said FNCCI Chairman Pradeep Jung Pandey at a press meet here on Tuesday.

Umesh Serchan, president of the Federation of Nepalese Crusher Industry Entrepreneurs, said the government’s provisions were not practical. “We ask the government how such a large number of factories can be displaced complying with the current provisions,” asked Serchan. Setting the standard, the government had cited environmental damages, particularly the Chure region, and potential damages to highways and bridges due to extraction of pebbles.

Sherchan, however, said they were ready to abide by the government’s standard provided the government arranged alternative sites to set up the factories. FNCCI Senior Vice-president Pashupati Murarka demanded the government provide compensation to crusher factory operators if it wants to continue with the standard.

Meanwhile, the Federation of Nepalese Contractors Association has also backed the movement of crusher industries.