Prakash Kafle / Kathmandu. Gorkhakhali Rubber Industry Limited, located in Gorkha Municipality–13, Majhuwā, is a significant pillar in Nepal’s industrial history. Registered with the Department of Industry on 30 Jestha 2041 BS (1984 CE) and inaugurated in 2042 BS (1985 CE) by then King Birendra, this industry is the only tire manufacturing plant in Nepal.
1. Establishment and the Golden Era of Commercial Success
Established with technical assistance from the Chinese government, the industry began commercial production in the 2050s BS (1990s CE). Considered an excellent example of public–private partnership, the industry quickly established a strong presence in the Nepali market:
- Production capacity: Targeted to produce 120,000 tires annually, the industry was producing around 88,000 tires per year.
- Variety: The industry manufactured 12 types of tires for trucks, 5 types for jeeps and vans, and 6 types for small cars, all of high quality.
- Investment and employment: With investments from the Government of Nepal, Asian Development Bank, Oil Corporation, Himal Cement, and Salt Trading, the industry directly employed around 400 people.
2. Market Expansion and International Recognition
Gorkhakhali tires could meet approximately 40% of domestic demand on their own.
- Exports: The tires were not only sold in Nepal but also exported to South Asian countries like India, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka.
- Network: For market management, the company had its own depots in over 30 major cities across the country.
3. Current Challenging Situation
For the past decade, the industry has been completely non-operational. Spanning 670 ropanis (approximately 34 hectares), this massive facility faces several problems:
- Asset deterioration: State-owned property worth around NPR 1 billion is now covered with bushes and grass.
- Physical condition: Machinery worth millions has rusted, and the premises are deserted. Currently, only a few guards are deployed for security.
4. Possibility of Revival and Way Forward
Recent government studies (DDA Report 2082/83 BS) have raised hopes of reviving the industry. However, some concrete steps are needed:
- Technology replacement: The old “bias tire” technology should be replaced with modern “radial tire” production machinery.
- Private sector partnership: Since it is difficult for the government alone to operate the plant, advancing it under a public–private partnership (PPP) model would be suitable.
- Policy reform: Government policies for operating a struggling industry need to be effectively implemented to attract domestic or foreign investment.
Conclusion
Gorkhakhali Rubber Industry is not just a factory but a symbol of Nepal’s industrial self-reliance. With proper management and modern technology, it can once again play a leading role in Nepal’s tire market and generate significant employment.
गोरखकाली रबर उद्योग: गौरवशाली इतिहासदेखि पुनर्जागरणको पर्खाइ सम्म
