No industrial units in Gujarat have closed down due to gas shortages despite the ongoing West Asia crisis, officials stated. K.C. Sampat, Additional Commissioner of the Industries and Mines Department of Gujarat, mentioned that out of the state’s 4,11,733 registered industries, 1,212 are currently non-operational, with around 28,517 functioning at reduced capacity. A significant number of affected units are in Morbi, where 984 units are shut, and 1,577 are operating at partial capacity out of 2,568 units, along with 217 closures in Surendranagar.
The impact of the West Asia situation on Gujarat’s industrial sector has been limited, with most industries operating regularly, albeit some being partially affected. Closures are attributed to issues like transportation, supply chain disruptions, and viability constraints. No major incidents of worker layoffs have been reported, according to Sampat.
The government is actively engaged at all levels, from the state to districts, in continuous coordination involving industries, GIDC offices, and labor departments. Industrialists and associations are providing real-time inputs, with a focus on addressing raw material, transportation, and supply chain issues. Meetings with major industrial associations in South Gujarat were held on March 28 to address labor concerns, including food security.
To support workers, 159 industrial community kitchens have been set up, providing daily meals to around 50,000 workers. Additionally, authorities are supplying five kg LPG cylinders for daily use and prioritizing piped natural gas (PNG) connections for essential services and industrial canteens. Fuel supply has been prioritized for key sectors like steel, automobiles, textiles, dyes, chemicals, and plastics, with lower reductions for fertilizers and dairy units.
