Surat, in the Indian state of Gujarat, is facing a severe crisis. Known as the heart of India’s textile industry, Surat’s vast network of garment factories is on the verge of shutdown due to an acute shortage of LPG gas, triggered by conflict in West Asia and the disruption of the Strait of Hormuz.
The textile sector in Surat relies heavily on millions of migrant workers from Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and Odisha. Over the past few days, a sharp shortage of LPG cylinders has left these workers in distress. Unable to cook food, many are going hungry and are now gathering in large numbers at Udhna railway station, preparing to return to their home villages.
According to a report by The Indian Express, the labour shortage has already forced many factories to suspend production for one or two days a week, while several small and medium-sized units have shut down completely. Textile traders warn that if the exodus continues, India’s supply chain in the global fabric market could collapse.
In workers’ colonies across Surat, the scarcity of cooking gas has reached alarming levels. Even after waiting in queues for up to 15 days, many are unable to obtain cylinders. Taking advantage of the situation, black market prices have surged to as high as ₹500 per kilogram. A small five-kilogram cylinder, typically priced at ₹500, is now selling for as much as ₹2,500.
A worker named Seema Devi told The Indian Express, “Our gas ran out seven days ago. We are not allowed to cook using firewood. Our savings are nearly exhausted, so I am returning to my village with my children.” Many workers say they are leaving the city despite having jobs, simply to survive.
India imports the bulk of its LPG from the Middle East. Due to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz and instability in the Persian Gulf, LPG supplies have dropped by around 30 per cent. Although the government is attempting alternative arrangements, delays in maritime transport have worsened the crisis.
Experts warn that if this mass departure of workers from Surat continues, both the domestic market and exports will suffer. With the festive season approaching, demand for textiles is expected to rise, but production disruptions could drive prices beyond the reach of ordinary consumers.
Industrialists in Surat are now urging the government to provide special fuel subsidies and ensure swift LPG supply. However, as long as tensions persist in the Middle East and normal operations in the Strait of Hormuz are not restored, the future of India’s once-thriving textile industry remains uncertain.
