Morbi, March 18 As many as 430 ceramic units in Morbi, Gujarat, will remain shut for at least three weeks as the conflict in West Asia has disrupted the supply of gas required for the manufacturing process, an industry representative said.
In Morbi, known as the "ceramic city" and the world's second-largest hub for ceramic tile production, nearly 450 out of the total 670 factories have already ceased operations due to the gas shortage, and many more are on the verge of shutting down in the coming days, officials said.
The ceramic industry relies heavily on propane or natural gas for its operations, particularly for firing kilns and drying processes.
The West Asian region has been facing military turmoil with the US and Israeli forces engaged in a war against Iran, which has closed the Strait of Hormuz, a major passage for vessels.
"A special meeting of ceramic units operating in Morbi, Gujarat, was convened on Tuesday, where the owners of around 430 units engaged in consultations regarding the gas crisis and related issues, and collectively decided to shut down their factories," said Manoj Arvadiya, president of the Morbi Ceramic Manufacturing Association.
The ceramic units using propane gas first shut down their operations as its supply ran out. Later, those using natural gas also closed their operations, he noted.
"Now, around 430 such units have collectively decided not to operate until April 10-15, and will use this time for maintaining their machines. They will resume operations once the new supply of gas is available," Arvadiya said.
The collective, voluntary decision taken by the members of the association during the meeting entails a shutdown period of 20 to 25 days, he said.
The entire situation hinges on the resolution of the conflict involving Iran, the US, and Israel, and the restoration of the regular gas supply.