Bangladesh, Sept. 17 -- Ishwardi's century-old Benarasi weaving industry is facing a severe crisis as cheaper I machine-made sarees, rising production costs and labour shortages have driven most factories out of business.

Cheaper Indian sarees have captured much of the market, leaving local artisans without work.

Most factories have closed, putting the century-old weaving industry at risk of disappearing.

Weavers said many factory owners failed to establish units at the complex, while several existing factories later closed because of high production costs, labour shortages and market competition.

A weaver said, "There used to be around 1,000 looms here. Now the number has fallen to 40-50. With government assistance, easy instalment ...