Surat: Textile units in Surat are currently grappling with a shortage of laborers. Of the over two million migrant laborers typically associated with the textile industry in Surat, approximately 30 percent have not returned after the recent election and wedding seasons, compounded by summer holidays. This absence of a significant number of laborers from states like Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Odisha, Rajasthan, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, among others, has resulted in production losses for weaving and processing houses.

These laborers are crucial not only for factory work but also for activities such as tempo operations, parcel packing, and other essential tasks. Despite a healthy influx of orders, many companies have been compelled to suspend their night shifts due to the scarcity of laborers.

Mitul Mehta, owner of a processing house, highlighted that while special trains were arranged by the Railways to facilitate laborers returning to their native states from Surat, a similar initiative is needed for their return journey to Surat. According to textile trader Rajiv Amar, the absence of laborers has significantly impacted operations, leaving tasks like lifting, shifting goods, folding, and parcel packing without adequate personnel.

The situation underscores the urgent need for concerted efforts to facilitate the return of laborers to Surat, ensuring the smooth functioning of its textile industry. DeshGujarat