More than 670 ceramic manufacturing units in Gujarat’s Morbi cluster have restarted operations within six weeks following disruptions related to the West Asia conflict, as per the state government. Gujarat Energy Limited (GEL), formerly Gujarat Gas Limited, played a crucial role in ensuring uninterrupted piped natural gas (PNG) supply and stable prices despite challenging global conditions. State Energy Minister Rushikesh Patel highlighted that the industry saw a significant revival, with operational units increasing from 83 to 670 in just a month and a half.
The geopolitical crisis led to increased raw material costs, restrictions on industrial propane usage, and higher transportation expenses, putting pressure on the ceramic industry. Consequently, many units voluntarily ceased operations in late March. GEL, adhering to central government directives, sourced natural gas from non-Middle Eastern markets to maintain a steady supply during the crisis. Extensive consultations with stakeholders, including the Morbi Ceramic Association, were held to facilitate the industry’s restart.
The positive outcomes of these efforts are now evident in the Morbi ceramic cluster, with GEL’s well-established gas distribution network catering to around 865 industrial units. Besides industrial supply, GEL expanded PNG connectivity in domestic and commercial sectors during the crisis, providing numerous connections to support essential services and the broader industrial ecosystem. Gujarat’s gas infrastructure demonstrated resilience amid the global crisis, ensuring uninterrupted energy supply, price stability, and superior infrastructure for the state’s industrial sector.
