MoICS's guidelines for smooth supply of essentials

The Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Supplies (MoICS) has issued a few guidelines to manage the supply and delivery of various essential commodities and services during the 15-day-long prohibitory order in Kathmandu valley which is in effect from today. The government has imposed the order so as to stop the spread of the second wave of coronavirus infection in Nepal.

The guidelines have been introduced after a meeting held among the secretaries of MoICS; chief district officers of Kathmandu, Lalitpur and Bhaktapur; representatives of the umbrella organisations of various private sector bodies; and other concerned authorities.

As per the guidelines, vehicles that are used in the transportation of daily essential goods and services need to affix a banner on their respective vehicles. Moreover, all necessary health safety protocols must be followed by the staff of the concerned vehicle.

The ministry has also stated that the staff of the vehicles that deliver the required materials to those industries that are involved in the manufacture of daily essential goods must carry the identification papers issued by their respective industry, organisation or business. Furthermore, they must also submit the details of their vehicle permit to the concerned District Administration Office and department.

The Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Supplies has also mentioned that the local administrations need to facilitate the movement of employees of industries that are involved in manufacturing essential goods or providing essential services based on the identification papers issued by their respective organisations and the letter specifying the purpose of their work.

According to the guidelines, industries, businesses or organisations that do not fall under the essential category but need to operate can do so after taking permission from the concerned department. However, such entities must follow all the mandatory health safety measures and operate with the least possible number of human resources. The ministry has also stated that such information must be provided to the respective local administrations.

The MoICS has also urged the umbrella organisations of the private sector to help facilitate the supply and delivery of essential goods and services.