Cement prices are likely to go up by between Rs 10 and Rs 15 across south India because of the threat of a nationwide transporters’ strike from August 21. The end of the monsoon season is also being cited as another reason. At present, cement prices are hovering between Rs 132 and Rs 145 per bag in Andhra Pradesh, between Rs 160 and Rs 170 in Tamil Nadu, between Rs 160 and Rs 170 in Karnataka and between Rs 167 and Rs 170 in Kerala. In the case of AP, the start of the Krishna pushkarams (festivals) on August 28, when labour is hard to get and also construction activity comes down, is cited as another incentive for manufacturers to raise prices. Every monsoon since 1999 has seen a slide in cement prices and rule in the range of Rs 80-100. This year, however, the price fall has not taken place because of the concerted efforts by the regional cement industry.