Surat's diamond and textile units to remain open amid coronavirus, slowdown

Industry stakeholders say closure would not only impact the health of the two sectors but would also lead to massive unemployment

At a time when exports and domestic demand have taken a hit due to the coronavirus outbreak, Surat-based diamond and synthetic textile industries will remain open to sustain business. The two sectors in the city together employ 2 million workers in normal business environment.

Industry stakeholders say closure of units due to reduced capacity utilisation would not only impact the health of the two industries but would also lead to widespread unemployment.

The respective industry associations have therefore decided to keep the units open for the benefit of unit owners and workers, most