HETAUDA: Industrial activity in the Hetauda Industrial Area of Makawanpur is steadily increasing, with two new industries recently starting operations, officials say.

According to Ramesh Raj Nepal, Information Officer at the Industrial Area Management Office, Precious Oist Refinery Pvt. Ltd. began trial production in the first week of January. The company processes old electronic goods to extract and produce new metals, an initiative believed to be the first of its kind in Nepal.

Another company, Radhakrishna Synthetic Pvt. Ltd., has been in full production of plastic bags since October last year.

Meanwhile, some previously closed industries are preparing to resume or expand operations. Nepal Brewery is set to restart production under new management, while Tripura Industries plans to establish a new tobacco manufacturing unit.

However, not all industries are operating at full capacity. Roto Printing Industry, which specialises in plastic printing, and Noble Packaging have temporarily halted production in recent months due to a lack of investment.

Officials say construction is ongoing for 13 industries within the zone, most of which are in the final stages of completion.

Established in 2020 BS with financial assistance from the United States government, the Hetauda Industrial Area now hosts 147 industries and establishments operating on leased land. The industrial zone covers 3,228 ropanis and accommodates a wide range of industries, including food production, breweries, paint manufacturing, animal feed, and carton production.

Several government institutions also operate within the area, including the Hetauda Milk Distribution Project, Provincial Food and Quality Control Office, Provincial Seed Company, Provincial Soil Testing Office, the Area Police Office, and Nepal Bank Limited’s Hetauda branch.

Of the total land, 2,178 ropanis are leased to industries, 26.52 ropanis remain vacant, and 597 ropanis are used for infrastructure such as roads, electricity, and sewage systems. The area currently includes 10 office buildings, 11 warehouses, and 34 other structures supporting industrial activities.