SWABI: The Gadoon Industrial Association on Sunday said over 70 units had been closed down in Gadoon Amazai Industrial Estate due to suspension of gas supply.

Briefing mediapersons about the hardships being faced by the industrialists here, association’s president Fazal Rahim and general secretary Nadir Khan said closure of industries had forced them to lay off hundreds of workers.

The industrialists said they had discussed their issues with the provincial ministers, the district administration, and the local lawmakers. However, they regretted that they were only given verbal assurances.

Fazal Rahim said if the government was really sincere in smooth functioning of the industrial estate then it should ensure uninterrupted gas supply to the units.

Nadir Khan said if the ‘anti-industry’ policy of the government did not end the remaining units in the estate would also be forced to close down.

They also blasted National Assembly Speaker Asad Qaiser for not taking their issue seriously.

The industrialists also criticised the government for increasing many taxes, and demanded their reversal.

Meanwhile, talking to Dawn an industrialist requesting anonymity said his electricity bill of Rs32.4 million included a whopping Rs7 million fuel price adjustment surcharge.

Another industrialist, whose unit has been closed over gas shortages, told Dawn that he had to lay off about 300 workers.

Published in Dawn, January 31st, 2022