Japanese carmaker Nissan has initiated a gradual ramp-up of production at its Chennai plant as it looks to cater to the pent up demand for its models across domestic and international markets, according to a top company official. The Oragadam-based plant, which is owned by Renault Nissan Automotive India Pvt Ltd (RNAIPL), had to temporarily suspend operations from May 26-30 due to the worsening of the COVID-19 situation in Tamil Nadu. The plant closure came after the company had a prolonged tussle with labour unions who demanded work to be stopped at the company s factory. The factory recommenced production on May 31. On June 4, the Madras High Court allowed the plant to continue with production while asking the automaker to address issues flagged by the state government on the safety of workmen, vis-a-vis COVID-19.