Sri Lanka, Nov. 9 -- The National Construction Workers Union (NCWU) has criticised the Government and construction material manufacturers over rising prices, warning that continued increases could push the construction industry towards collapse.

Addressing a media briefing, NCWU General Secretary Supun Abeysekara said the price of a bag of cement had increased by nearly Rs. 300 over the past two to three months.

He said a bag of cement, which previously sold for around Rs. 1,900, was now being retailed at Rs. 2,250, while the Maximum Retail Price printed on some bags had reached Rs. 2,400.

Carrying a bag of cement to highlight the issue, Abeysekara accused manufacturers of gradually increasing prices, placing an additional financial b...