The "Diamond City" of India is facing a silent but severe crisis. As the Iran-Israel conflict chokes global energy routes, Surat’s massive textile industry is on the verge of a shutdown. An acute shortage of LPG (Cooking Gas) has triggered a massive exodus of migrant workers, who are crowding Udhna Railway Station to return to their native villages in Bihar, UP, and Odisha.Survival Over Employment: Why Workers are LeavingDespite the availability of work in the textile mills, thousands of laborers are choosing to leave because they simply cannot cook their meals.Black Market Explosion: In areas like Pandesara and Udhna, 5kg LPG cylinders that usually cost ₹500 are reportedly being sold for a staggering ₹2,500 to ₹3,000.No Alternative: Landlords have prohibited the use of firewood in rented rooms to avoid damage, leaving workers with no choice but to starve or head home.Industry Stagnation: The South Gujarat Textile Processors Association (SGTPA) has decided to shut down units for two days a week due to a 30–40% labor shortage and rising production costs.Western Railway Clarifies: "No Mass Exodus"As videos of packed platforms at Udhna station went viral, the Western Railway issued a statement to curb panic.Routine Traffic: Officials clarified that while passenger numbers are high, they are within "normal seasonal limits" for the month of March.Special Trains: To manage the rush, railways have deployed extra staff and RPF personnel, ensuring that trains like the Udhna–Varanasi and Udhna–Danapur Express are running as per capacity.The Global Link: Why is Surat Suffering?The ongoing war in West Asia has disrupted the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint through which nearly 90% of India's LPG imports pass. While the Indian government has secured safe passage for a few carriers like MT Shivalik and MT Nanda Devi, the domestic supply chain remains severely strained.The Economic FalloutSurat’s textile sector, which employs over 8 lakh migrants, is reeling. If the labor drain continues, the impact will be felt across the national supply chain, leading to a hike in fabric and garment prices across India just ahead of the festive season.
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