Due to the ongoing conflict in the Gulf region, gas supplies across the country are being disrupted—an impact that is being felt directly by industries and businesses in Jalandhar. The prices of commercial gas cylinders have suddenly skyrocketed, and these cylinders are now being sold on the black market for up to approximately ₹4,200. The situation is becoming more critical by the day, causing significant distress among small and medium-sized business owners.
Factory owners, restaurant operators, sweet shop proprietors, and hoteliers report that they are unable to procure gas cylinders easily. Out of necessity, they are forced to purchase cylinders on the black market at exorbitant rates, which has substantially increased their operational costs. Traders noted that a cylinder which previously cost around ₹1,500 is now selling for three times that price.
Business owners state that the gas shortage is adversely affecting both production and service delivery. Many factories have scaled back production, while operations in hotels and restaurants are also being disrupted. This is resulting in losses not only for the business community but is also impacting the livelihoods of laborers and employees.
**Strict Action Demanded Against Black Marketing**
Local residents and trade associations have urged the administration to streamline gas supplies and take strict action against black marketing. They have warned that if a solution is not found soon, the situation could deteriorate further, causing severe losses to both the general public and the business sector. A shortage of commercial gas cylinders has never been experienced before. These circumstances have arisen solely due to the Gulf conflict; consequently, business owners are currently operating under immense stress, as they are compelled to purchase all supplies on the black market. This has led to a 30 to 40 percent increase in production costs, resulting in significantly reduced profit margins.
