Frequent Maoist strikes crippling Nepalese town's economy: [World News]: Siddharthnagar (Nepal), Jan.23 : Frequent shutdowns called by Maoists in Nepal have crippled the economy of small towns, which share their borders with India. The string of general strikes and blockades by the rebels has shaken confidence in the government's ability to provide security and devastated an already fragile economy. Nepal has come to a near halt five times since December as businesses, schools and public transport shut down after calls by the rebels and their supporters. In Siddharthnagar region, bordering India, residents complained of steep hike in prices of general commodities. "Because of the shutdown, the goods that were earlier coming freely from India are not there and we are facing problem as consumers. We are very much affected by the shutdowns. The Maoists should opt for some other means than shutdown to put forth their demands," said Kulanand Giwali, a resident. Prices of most essential commodities, particularly milk and petrol, have soared as continuing blockades lead to shortage. "We face a lot of problems. The prices of fruit and vegetables have risen. It has almost become double," said Sunita, another resident. The Maoists have been fighting since 1996 to set up a communist republic in the Hindu nation wedged between India and China. Analysts say rebel strikes are observed more out of fear of reprisals than support for their cause.