Despite cement’s demand recovery remains uncertain, prices of the key construction material have gone up by Rs 10-15 to Rs 300 a bag in select regions. The northern region witnessed the sharpest hike. In Delhi, it was up by Rs 15-20 to Rs 285 a bag.However, prices in Maharashtra remained stable at Rs 300 a bag, as the south-west monsoon is expected in the next few days. The rise in operational cost and freight rates has led to companies to increase prices. Domestic coal prices increased by 60 per cent, while railways also revised its rates higher in the March quarter.The price hike has surprised many, as cement companies reduced prices in May by Rs 5-12 a bag in order to reduce inventory.