Ludhiana, March 21: The manufacturing landscape in Ludhiana is facing severe operational challenges as rising global tensions drive up the cost of industrial fuel and raw materials. Local industrial representatives stated on Saturday that the cost of petroleum-based products has soared, forcing many energy-intensive units to reconsider their output levels.
Executive members of the ATIU, including Rajesh Mittal and Rahul Gupta, affirmed that the forging sector is finding it increasingly difficult to sustain operations under the current pricing structure. They stated that the sharp rise in petcoke and furnace oil prices has emerged as a primary concern, complicating the execution of existing orders. They maintained that the government should intervene to stabilize prices and ensure the continuity of the MSME sector.
The impact has also extended to specialized industries such as induction moulds and sewing machine manufacturing. Rajesh Sachdev of Diana Steel Products asserted that the current price volatility requires a strategic response from the state and central authorities. He declared that the additional financial burden on small and medium enterprises could lead to widespread industrial distress if corrective measures are not taken immediately.
Furthermore, the shift in bulk diesel pricing has prompted fears of operational congestion at retail petrol pumps. Industry experts stated that as businesses move away from expensive bulk supplies, the resulting pressure on retail outlets will create further logistical delays. They asserted that the role of the industry in job creation must be protected through targeted subsidies or price caps to prevent a long-term slowdown in Punjab’s industrial growth.
