Biratnagar Jute Mill: Shut Down for a Long Time, Carrying Nepali Political History (Photos)

Nepal's first and government-owned Biratnagar Jute Mill has been shut down for a long time. The history of this mill is also connected with Nepal's political movements.

The Nepali Congress operated 'Radio Prajatantra'in 2006 BS within the premises of this very industry, which Juddha Shumsher established in 1993 BS. 

Former Prime Ministers Girija Prasad Koirala and Man Mohan Adhikari both started their political journeys here.

Despite being a historic industry, it has repeatedly opened and closed due to political interference. It has been closed since 2070 BS. Due to the long closure, the industry has become like a ruin.

Due to a lack of protection, many items from the industry have been stolen. The existing equipment is also rusted and unusable due to being left idle for a long time.

Experts say that the condition of the mill began to decline with the restoration of democracy in 2046 BS. 

Political hiring of confidantes in the operating committee, political instability, and repeated changes in leadership and management have brought the industry to its current state.

Photo: Prakash Chandra Timilsena / Nepal Photo Library