Indian two-wheeler market is one of the largest in the world despite experiencing a slowdown in 2019. 2020 is shaping to be uncertain with automobile manufacturers seeing a decline in sales due to nationwide lockdown. Coronavirus Pandemic forced the Indian Government to put nationwide restrictions leading to the closure of dealerships and shutting down of automobile plants across the country. As the lockdown is being slowly eased, two-wheeler manufacturers are resuming operations in India. Royal Enfield is starting operations at its Oragadam facility in Tamil Nadu.
Dealerships are slowly being opened with 120 dealers already opened and another 300 said to be opening soon. Royal Enfield suspended its operations on March 23 as per the Government directives to stop the COVID-19 spread. As per the new guidelines by the Indian government on May 1 on resuming economic activities like manufacturing and industrial. Chennai based manufacturer in a statement confirmed that they have already resumed operations at its manufacturing facilities since the 6th of May 2020.
Royal Enfield Oragadam facility is the first to begin operations in a phased manner with minimal workforce engaged in manufacturing activities in a single shift. The company has put its employees and shopfloor residing in and around the plant side to avoid commutation problems and minimize physical contact. Royal Enfield is following the health guidelines in regards to social distancing and workplace sanitization.
Royal Enfield’s other two units Tiruvottiyur and Vallam Vadagal will be resuming operations in a phased manner. Apart from manufacturing units, including corporate offices in Chennai, Gurgaon and the UK Technical will continue to work from home. Stringent safety measures and social distancing guidelines will be followed by the company.
Royal Enfield has extended warranty and free service validity for two months during the lockdown period. Royal Enfield in its statement to the media outlet said it will continue to monitor the epidemic situation and take any action in accordance with regulatory and administrative rules.
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