India's steel ministry has sought assistance from the oil ministry to mitigate the impact of the LPG shortage on steel plants. The shortage, caused by the war in West Asia, has halted shipments through the Strait of Hormuz.
New Delhi has invoked emergency measures to prioritize access to natural gas for essential sectors. The LPG shortage has already started to show in the steel-forging units of Punjab, where nearly 300 industries rely entirely on commercial gas.
The industrial units are seeking priority access to commercial gas, failing which production would come to a standstill. An early approval will help maintain production continuity, protect employment, and meet industrial commitments.
Industry leaders have echoed the sentiment, warning that the LPG situation will impact margins, jobs, future investments, and confidence to commit to long-term contracts.