Kia suspends all operations in India amid COVID-19 fears
What's the story
Amid the growing COVID-19 cases in India, Kia Motors has temporarily suspended all operations in the country. The action, according to a statement issued by the South Korean automaker, will see the closure of all its offices as well as the humongous manufacturing factory recently established in Anantapur, Andhra Pradesh. Here's all about the decision.
Suspension
Kia offices, factory closed for worker and customer safety
In a recent press statement, Kia announced that its office premises and the Anantapur manufacturing facility will stop functioning, with immediate effect. The company emphasized that the decision has been taken "in view of the unprecedented situation arising out of the spread of COVID-19 and keeping in mind the safety and well-being of all our consumers, employees, workers, partners, and associates pan India."
Information
Anantapur is one of India's big car facilities
Kia's Anantapur plant, established in late 2019, is one of the biggest car manufacturing units in India, covering 23 million square feet and employing several state-of-the-art types of machinery, including 450 robots, as well as thousands of workers.
Reopening
Suspension to remain in effect until further notice
The statement from Kia didn't mention anything about when it plans on resuming the operations. Instead, the company only noted that the factories/offices will remain closed "until further notice". It also said that all Kia dealerships across the country will remain available on call and are also accessible to customers for all their requirements through the company's digital channels.
Deliveries
Work going on to make deliveries on time
Despite the suspension, Kia emphasized, work is going on to ensure timely deliveries for all the orders placed with the company. The automaker also stated that it is working to ensure that the service requirements of its customers are attended to, without compromising the overall safety of its personnel and customers. So far, COVID-19 has killed 9 and infected nearly 500 Indians.
Details
Situation being monitored closely, says Kia
Kia added that it "will continue to closely monitor the situation and ensure the best interests of everyone associated with its operations in the country." It also said that the company will also "remain connected with all concerned authorities and administration and will extend all possible cooperation and assistance, as and when required" to fight this deadly pandemic.