Ludhiana, Sept. 30 -- Thousands of small industrial units operating under Ludhiana's mixed land use (MLU) areas are staring at an uncertain future as the policy that permits their operations is set to expire on September 30. Industrialists fear regulatory action if the government does not extend the policy, while many fear that shifting their units to designated industrial areas could impose a financial burden they cannot afford.

Harpal Singh Bhamber, former president of the Janta Nagar Small Factories' Association, said relocating his four units, which manufacture handles and brakes for larger cycle manufacturers, would cost around Rs.4 crore.

"If I take a loan for the relocation, the annual interest alone would be around Rs.40 lakh. O...