Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar
Amid disruptions in global fuel supply triggered by escalating tensions involving the United States, Israel, Iran and other regions, industries in Waluj MIDC have received partial relief through piped natural gas (PNG) supply.
By Wednesday, around 19 industries in the Waluj industrial area were supplied 12- 13 tonnes of gas through PNG. From Thursday, an additional seven companies are set to receive supply, taking the total to 26 units. Sources from Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) indicated that connections will be extended based on demand.
The disruption in petroleum imports from Gulf nations had raised serious concerns last week, with fears that over 400 industries could shut down, potentially impacting nearly two lakh jobs. Since March 5, the supply of commercial gas has remained suspended. Industries have been operating on existing reserves, with shutdowns looming as stocks depleted. The PNG distribution network in Waluj has now offered critical support, especially to sectors like automobile, beverage, bottling and pharmaceuticals that rely heavily on gas.
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Price surge adds pressure
Prior to the conflict, PNG was supplied at Rs 1,300 per cubic metre. The rate has now increased to rs 2,300 per cubic metre a sharp rise of Rs 1,000 adding financial strain on industries. Local representatives of BPCL stated that pricing decisions are being implemented as per directives from higher authorities. While the PNG rollout has provided temporary relief, industry stakeholders remain cautious as supply remains limited compared to overall demand.