FAISALABAD, April 8: Construction work on more than 100 private and public sector projects has almost come to a standstill after increase in cement and steel prices, rendering scores of daily wagers jobless. The cement price has been increased by Rs120 per 50kg bag during the last one month and now it is being sold at Rs380 against Rs260. In some of the city areas, cement dealers have reportedly created an artificial shortage.

Moreover, during a couple of days back, steel dealers have increased prices from Rs37,000 to Rs43,000 per ton, which is a record increase over the last some years. As a result of which contractors have stopped work on around 70 projects of commercial plazas and houses, rendering a number of daily wagers jobless.

Similarly, government contractors have halted 30 projects.

Meanwhile, a Punjab communication and works department official has confirmed that the Faisalabad Contractors Association President Muhammad Aslam Bosal has demanded a review in estimates.

Mr Bosal has accused kiln owners of overcharging.

He urged the federal government to take stock of the situation and activate the Monopoly Control Authority to ensure smooth supply of building material at controlled rates.