West Asia tensions, RLNG cuts hit Firozabad’s glass and bangle industry

Firozabad, Uttar Pradesh: Known as the ‘Glass City of India Firozabad has long been famous for its intricate glass bangles and handcrafted decorative items that brighten festive seasons in India and abroad. From colourful bangles to delicate glass ornaments and candle stands, the city’s products enjoy strong demand, especially in Western markets.

However, the ongoing tensions in West Asia involving Iran, Israel, and the United States are beginning to cast a shadow over the industry.

Industrialists in Firozabad say the situation has become more challenging following recent government cuts in the supply of Regasified Liquefied Natural Gas (RLNG), the primary fuel used to run glass furnaces. They warn that reduced gas availability, combined with rising operational costs, could significantly impact production.

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Local manufacturers also point to disruptions in shipping routes across the Gulf region due to geopolitical tensions, which are creating uncertainty in export logistics and increasing transportation costs.

According to industry representatives, more than 200 glass manufacturing units in the district depend heavily on natural gas. Together, these units require nearly 1.5 million cubic metres of gas per day to maintain continuous production. With supplies tightening, sustaining operations has become increasingly difficult.

Industry leaders caution that if the conflict continues and gas supply disruptions persist, the glass and bangle sector in Firozabad could face mounting losses in the coming weeks, threatening a trade that supports thousands of livelihoods in the region.