Jute mills urge Bengal govt to allow two-shift operation during lockdown
The government had on Wednesday allowed all jute millsin the state to reopen but with only 15 per cent of theworkforce and in strict adherence to social distancing norms.
The industry body, in a letter to the chief secretary,urged him to allow the two-shift operation at jute mills inthe state, sources told .
It also said a report, prepared by consulting firmPricewaterhouseCoopers (PWC), has suggested such arrangementcan be possible while adhering to safety norms.
IJMA has appointed PWC to frame standard operatingprocedures (SOP) for jute mills and attached the report withthe letter, the sources said.
"It is pertinent to mention here that while complyingwith the SOP contained therein, it is possible to operate jutemills for two straight shifts per day, as detailed in thereport.
"Keeping in view the feasibility of running the jutemill and furthermore catering to the gunny bag requirements ofFood Corporation of India and state procuring agencies, suchpermission may be granted," the letter said.
The industry body seeks immediate approval from thestate government, sources said.
Owing to the harvesting season that has already begun,FCI and state procuring agencies need jute bags urgently andthe IJMA has to fulfill the commitment to supply them insufficient quantity and on time, the letter said.
The millers said they are committed to take measuresfor the safety, welfare and well-being of workmen in the jutemills.
IJMA Chairman Raghav Gupta had on Wednesday saidrunning the mills with only 15 per cent of the workerforce wasnot feasible. BSMBDC BDC