Surat: A leading diamond company located in Surat, Bhavnagar, and other cities, Maruti Impex, has announced a temporary closure of its operations for the next 3 to 4 months. The closure affects around 15,000 staff members, including diamond artisans, computer operators, and support staff across Surat, Bhavnagar, Amreli, and Junagadh.

With uncertainty about the resumption of operations, the company has advised its staff to seek alternative employment. Salaries for employees were cleared up to the Diwali break.

Known for polishing natural diamonds, Maruti Impex operates over 100 units, comprising both directly owned and outsourced facilities. The decision to halt operations follows the deteriorating health of its founder, Suresh Lakhani, who suffered a brain stroke three months ago and remains in a coma. Lakhani, the driving force of the company, managed everything from procurement to sales.

In his absence, family members and staff handled operations until Diwali. However, due to unfavourable market conditions and the absence of Lakhani’s leadership, the management has decided to suspend activities. DeshGujarat