Goverment expresses concern over cement price hike

Guwahati, Apr 2 (UNI) The Asom government has expressed serious concern over the cement price hike and decided to write to the Railway Board Chairman for supply of required railway racks in the North Eastern region.

Chief Secretary S Kabilan has discussed the matter with the local and national level cement manufacturers here yesterday.

Regarding the withdrawal of freight concession to the region, the Asom government has already taken up the matter with the Centre and Railway Board for reintroduction of six percent concession to NE region.

Expressing concern over the issue, Mr Kabilan said that he has communicated the matter to Union Minister for Urban Development to find out the reasons behind the hike.

Withdawal of freight concession in NE by the Railway Authority from January this year and shortage of 354 railway racks against monthly requirement of 80 for movement of cement, were responsible for such hike.

The Chief Secretary has requested all the concerned manufacturers, dealers and handling agents to keep the price under control.

Meanwhile, BJP National leader Promod Mahajan today alleged that Congress raised the election fund from the cement dealers.

''We would like to know about the secret meeting between the state Chief Secretary and cement dealers,'' he said here.

Mr Mahajan futher said the cement price soared abnormally by Rs 100. Asom Chief Minister said that he will start an inquiry, but it is yet to start'' UNI AB JYN rd 1828