The ongoing conflict in West Asia has triggered a severe LPG shortage in Surat, Gujarat, forcing thousands of migrant workers from Bihar and other states to return home. A sudden spike in fuel prices and lack of availability for commercial use has disrupted the daily lives of those working in the textile hub. Udhna Railway Station is witnessing massive crowds as workers struggle to find affordable cooking fuel after the central government prioritized domestic supplies.
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Why are migrant workers leaving Surat?
The primary reason for the exodus is the acute shortage of LPG cylinders used by workers for cooking. Following the West Asia tensions, the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas directed oil companies to prioritize domestic consumers. This move left commercial users and workers who rely on small cylinders in a difficult position. With refill prices jumping from a regular rate to nearly 4,000 rupees in the black market, survival has become impossible for the average laborer earning a daily wage. Workers reported that even small refills now cost them significantly more than their daily food budget.
Key updates on the LPG crisis and government measures
The administration has taken several steps to manage the situation while industries try to support their workforce through local interventions. Textile associations have set up relief measures to ensure workers do not leave due to hunger. The following data highlights the current situation in Surat:
| Category | Current Status and Impact |
|---|---|
| Timeline | Crisis peaked around mid-March 2026 |
| Affected States | Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Odisha, and Jharkhand |
| Price Surge | Black market rates reached 2,500 to 4,000 rupees |
| Industrial Support | Mega kitchens serving meals at 50 rupees set up |
| Government Action | Essential Commodities Act invoked by the Center |
| Transport Hub | Heavy crowding reported at Udhna Railway Station |
Local authorities have deployed officials to 75 gas agencies to prevent hoarding and black marketing. Meanwhile, the South Gujarat Textile Processors Association has converted community halls into 24-hour kitchens to serve thousands of workers daily. Despite these efforts, some textile mills have started shutting down for a few days each week because many workers have already left for their native villages in Bihar and neighboring regions.
